BC13

Proposed Provision of Bus and Coach Services Legislative Competence Order (LCO)

Response from Welsh Local Government Association

Introduction

1. The Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) represents the 22 local authorities in Wales, and the three national park authorities, the three fire and rescue authorities, and four police authorities are associate members.  

2. It seeks to provide representation to local authorities within an emerging policy framework that satisfies the key priorities of our members and delivers a broad range of services that add value to Welsh Local Government and the communities they serve.

3. In response to the consultation exercise on Huw Lewis AM’s proposal for a Legislative Competence Order (LCO) relating to the provision of bus and coach services in Wales, WLGA’s comments are as follows:

1. Do you agree with the principle that legislative competence for "the provision of bus and coach services” in Wales should be conferred on the National Assembly for Wales?

Yes - because it would facilitate efforts to secure more integrated services, but only if it is matched by the principle of adequate funding to match competences

2. If you agree with the principle, do you think that the wording of the proposed legislative competence order is correct, or do you think it is too broad or too narrow?

Please give the reasons for your answer.

Yes - but any requirements passed on to local authorities in subsequent measures can be met only if there is sufficient funding attached

3. Do you think that the National Assembly for Wales should be given competence over some or all of the exceptions listed above in relation to the provision of bus and coach services in Wales?:

Please give the reasons for your answer.

No - these are issues where consistency across the UK is beneficial and avoids unnecessary bureaucracy

4. What are your views on the main objective of the proposed LCO which is to introduce a bus franchising system in Wales?

WLGA would be supportive of NAW gaining competence over bus legislation to allow them to change the framework in place at the moment should it prove to be unworkable in light of the Wales Transport Strategy etc. Franchising is one of the options that need to be explored through the implementation of the WTS and, when published, the National Transport Plan but at this stage WLGA would not necessarily want to commit to franchising.

5.  What are your views on the use of the proposed LCO to provide the Assembly with the necessary powers to improve school transport safety?

As above, supported subject to adequate resources being made available to put necessary measures in place.

4. In concluding, local government is keen to work with stakeholders to deliver quality transport services to the residents and visitors to Wales. This evidenced by the enthusiastic commitment to the work of the Regional Transport Consortia. Accordingly, local government will work with interested parties in relation to the proposed LCO but will need the necessary level of resources if the full benefits of partnership working are to be realised.

For further information please contact:

Tim Peppin
Director of Regeneration and Sustainable Development
Welsh Local Government Association
Local Government House
Drake walk
Cardiff
CF10 4LG
Tel: 029 2046 8600