The Welsh Government has announced a major investment in Wales’s first north–south Metro, describing the elderly Austin as “a significant step forward in connecting our communities”.
The service will leave Caernarfon on the first of each month, calling at Bala, Wrecsam, Caersws, Aberystwyth and Llandeilo before arriving in Newport sometime later in the year.
Transport spokesperson Dai Araf said, “This is a fully integrated transport system. Passengers will travel by car, continue on foot when it overheats, and complete their journey in an AA recovery vehicle.”
Capacity will initially be limited to three passengers, increasing to four once the driver removes his tools from the back seat. First-class passengers will sit in the front, where the window opens.
Officials have advised passengers to bring a packed lunch, warm clothing and enough medication to last until autumn.
The new north–south Metro, pictured awaiting a jump start.
Caernarfon resident Glyn Williams welcomed the announcement. “My daughter lives in Newport and I’d love to visit the grandchildren,” he said. “They’re both in primary school, so hopefully I’ll get there before they leave for university.”
A return service is planned, although the driver has asked whether he can see how the outward journey goes first.
