Mayor of Barry asks where's the buses at docks interchange

According to Plaid Cymru Councillor Ian Johnson the bus station is “beautiful”, but who can use it if there’re no buses there?

Mayor Johnson said: “The Barry Docks bus station looks beautiful, but if there are no buses, then how can people use it?

“In April, I asked the Vale Council which services would be using the new bus interchange when it opened and was told that the number 88 was one service that was earmarked to serve the Interchange.

“In addition, Cardiff Bus has been considering which of their Barry services could run into and out of the interchange."

It looks unlikely the 88 will serve the new bus interchange after Cardiff Bus announced they were cancelling the route due to lack of funds and dwindling passenger numbers after Covid.

Cllr Johnson demanded to know when a bus would show at the site.

“We’re now reaching the start of September,” said Cllr Johnson, “and the number 88 bus service has been cancelled and the new timetable from Cardiff Bus has no services calling at Barry Docks.

“The idea of this bus station is to encourage people to use a joined-up public transport service that serves Barry and allows them to travel further afield.

“Barry needs a good, properly integrated bus and train service, and we really need this to be a success.”

The interchange cost £3m to build (Image: Newsquest)

Councillor Millie Collins supported her party colleague’s views, saying: “Why has the Vale Council built a bus station without any buses using it? 

“When are we going to see buses use this great new facility at Barry Docks?”

The new interchange looks empty (Image: Newsquest)

The Vale of Glamorgan council recently confirmed the station is open and will link up many facets of public transport for the town.

A Vale Council spokesperson said: “The Barry Docks Transport Interchange is open, offering a meeting point for different modes of transport and creating a hub for sustainable forms of travel.

“Train, bus, cycle and taxi services will all be connected in one place, alongside park and ride facilities.

“Electric Vehicle chargers will be installed there soon, while ongoing conversations are taking place with operators over incorporating the interchange into existing bus routes.”

What do you think of the bus situation in Barry? Are you a fan of the new Barry Docks bus interchange? Will you use it? Let us know, emailing harry.jamshidian@newsquest.co.uk.