MP urges government review of bus service changes

The direct bus link between Newtown and Cardiff should be reinstated, according to an MP who says recent changes have made journeys to the Welsh capital longer and less convenient for passengers.

David Chadwick has called on Transport for Wales and the Welsh Government to review changes made to the T4 service in September 2025, which ended the direct bus connection between Newtown and Cardiff.

The T4 route now operates between Newtown and Merthyr Tydfil, with passengers required to change onto the X4 service to complete their journey to Cardiff.

Before the changes, the T4 provided a direct service from Newtown through Mid Wales and Brecon to the Welsh capital. With no direct rail service available, it was the only direct public transport link between Newtown and Cardiff.

Speaking during a parliamentary debate on transport links for small towns, Mr Chadwick said the revised arrangements had created problems for passengers because the T4 and X4 services were not always well integrated, resulting in long waits and unreliable connections.

He argued that the additional change particularly affects older passengers, disabled people, those travelling with luggage and residents attending appointments in Cardiff.

Mr Chadwick said Cardiff remained an important destination for residents across Powys, providing access to specialist NHS services, universities, employment opportunities and national institutions.

He is now urging Transport for Wales and the Welsh Government to restore the direct service.

Mr Chadwick said: “Cardiff is not simply another destination on the route. It is where people travel for specialist NHS appointments, university and college education, employment opportunities and access to national institutions. For many residents across Powys, a reliable public transport connection to the Welsh capital is essential.

“What was once the only direct connection between Mid Wales and Cardiff now requires passengers to change in Merthyr Tydfil. For many residents, particularly older passengers, disabled passengers and those carrying luggage, that additional change is not a minor inconvenience. It makes journeys longer, more complicated and less attractive.

“The change to the T4 service may look minor on a map, but for those who rely on public transport, it has made travelling to Cardiff significantly more difficult. Rural communities should not be expected to accept a worse service while being told it represents progress.”

The call comes amid ongoing concerns about public transport connectivity in Mid Wales, where residents often rely on long distance bus services to access healthcare, education and employment opportunities outside the region.