Lib Dems Call for Direct Powys-Cardiff Bus Route to Be Reinstated

Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe David Chadwick has called for the direct bus route between Mid Wales and Cardiff to be reinstated, warning that changes introduced to the T4 service have made journeys to the Welsh capital longer and less convenient for many residents.

The changes, introduced by Transport for Wales in September 2025, saw the T4 route altered so that it now operates between Newtown and Merthyr Tydfil rather than continuing directly to Cardiff. Passengers travelling to Cardiff must now change onto the X4 service in Merthyr Tydfil to complete their journey.

The service previously ran directly from Newtown, through Mid Wales and Brecon to Cardiff without the need to change to another service and with a lack of direct rail services, was the only direct public transport connection to the capital.

Speaking during a debate in Parliament on transport links for small towns, Mr Chadwick highlighted concerns that the T4 and X4 services are poorly integrated, leaving passengers facing lengthy waits and unreliable connections. He argued that the loss of the direct service disproportionately affects older passengers, disabled people, those travelling with luggage and residents attending appointments.

The MP said Cardiff remains a crucial destination for residents across Brecknockshire and Radnorshire, providing access to specialist NHS services, universities, employment opportunities and national institutions. He is now calling on Transport for Wales and the Welsh Government to review the changes and restore a direct bus connection between Mid Wales and Cardiff.

Commenting, David Chadwick MP 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."

ENDS