Part of 1. 1. Questions to the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure – in the Senedd at 2:03 pm on 7 December 2016.
The Member is absolutely right that we need to ensure that the transport network is fully integrated. Yesterday, I outlined to Llyr Huws Gruffydd how we are supporting the bus network in north-east Wales in the area where the metro’s origins will be formed in terms of the approach that needs to be taken since the collapse of GHA Coaches. It’s absolutely essential that we stabilise the bus network in the short term whilst we put together the vision for the north Wales metro. Fifty million pounds has been secured for the development of the metro, and the initial scoping of the work has focused on an integrated hub concept in the Deeside area encompassing, as the Member outlines, rail, bus, active travel and road enhancements. In addition to the development of the north Wales metro, which will, of course, span the border, we are committed to proceeding to public consultation in the new year on a major upgrading of the A494/A55 to relieve congestion on that route.