Hywel Dda UHB Staff to Enjoy Free Bus Travel in March with TfW Pilot Program

Transport for Wales collaborates with Hywel Dda University Health Board to offer free bus travel for its staff throughout March, aiming to promote sustainable commuting and alleviate parking pressures.

 

In an innovative move to promote sustainable travel and ease parking congestion, Transport for Wales (TfW) has partnered with Hywel Dda University Health Board (UHB) to introduce a pilot program offering free bus travel for health board staff this March. Starting from 1st March, employees of Hywel Dda UHB can utilize the TrawsCymru T1 service, operated by First Cymru, between Carmarthen and Aberystwyth, including stops at Glangwili Hospital, at no cost by presenting their staff ID. Additionally, the TrawsCymru T2 and T28 services to Bronglais Hospital, operated by Lloyds Coaches, will also be available for free travel.

This initiative enables staff to make unlimited journeys for both work-related and personal reasons, potentially saving significant amounts on fuel costs. The pilot coincides with the first anniversary of introducing a new fleet of electric buses on the T1 route, which are popular among passengers for their eco-friendly and passenger-friendly features such as reading lights, USB sockets, and an air purification system.

TfW and Hywel Dda UHB will assess the pilot's impact mid-March, with plans to conduct a full review post-completion. This program is seen as a step towards reducing car park congestion and encouraging healthcare workers to adopt more eco-conscious travel habits.

Mark Jacobs of TrawsCymru and Gareth Rees of Hywel Dda UHB have both expressed their enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its potential benefits for staff well-being, environmental sustainability, and operational efficiency at hospital sites. The success of this pilot could pave the way for similar sustainable travel incentives across Wales, reinforcing the commitment of both organizations to support eco-friendly commuting solutions.