UK: The Welsh Government is to provide up to £65m over the next six months through an Emergency Measures Agreement to ensure that Wales & Borders passenger services can continue to operate.
This will also ensure key infrastructure projects can be delivered, and fund free travel for NHS staff.
The May 31 announcement follows the initial £40m short-term agreement with Transport for Wales and operator TfW Rail Services which was announced on March 31.
The Welsh Government said the effects of the coronavirus pandemic meant public transport use was down 95% compared to last year, and season ticket refunds and social distancing requirements would also have an impact on revenue.
‘It is only right that we proceed cautiously before encouraging higher levels of passenger numbers on public transport’, said Deputy Transport Minister Lee Waters. ‘We therefore need to take action to ensure we have an effective rail network in the long term. Our funding will help our rail service cope with the inevitable revenue loss resulting from coronavirus.’
