03 Bus Route FAQs
Is this a new bus service?
Yes, it’s a new service and a joint venture between the National Library of Wales and Aberystwyth University. The University invited tenders from bus companies earlier this year to run a service from town to the University via the National Library and Mid Wales Travel were successful in their bid. This is a venture which aims to provide a better service for students and the general public.
What is the route around campus?
The bus will enter Penglais campus via the new National Library Link road. After stopping at the National Library, the first stop on campus will be the Sports Centre and then continues to the existing bus stop adjacent to Penglais Hill entrance. Moving on it will then turn right back towards the Arts Centre where it will stop by the steps leading up to the concourse, allowing access to the Arts centre, Huw Owen Library and Student Guild. it will then proceed along the main road, turn right downhill past the Carwyn James building where it will stop again by the sports centre, before finally exiting the campus via the link road to the National Library. A map is available at https://maps.google.co.uk/maps/ms?msid=206383041805288796877.0004c27fef878d7f77216&msa=0
What is the timetable?
The new 03 Mid Wales Travel service circulates between town, the National Library and Penglais campus every 20 minutes between 07.40 and 19.40, Monday to Friday during term-time. The evening service between 20.20 and 22.20 is hourly with the last bus leaving the Arts Centre at 22.33. The first bus arrives on campus at 07.51 (at the Sports Centre, 07.52 main entrance, 07.53 Arts Centre). Full timetable details available at http://www.aber.ac.uk/en/media/Bus03_A4_Timetable_PDF_20_09_2012AW.PDF
Is there a service on weekends and out of term?
Yes, on weekends and out of term, the service will be hourly between 7.45 and 22.45. For the timetable, go to http://www.aber.ac.uk/en/media/Bus03_A4_Timetable_PDF_20_09_2012AW.PDF
Does this take over the 3 Arriva Bus route and the old University Circular?
No, the no 3 Arriva Bus is a different to the new 03 Mid Wales Travel service. Similar route numbers with small changes are not uncommon. In Aberystwyth, we have the X50, the 550 and the 50, all running slightly different routes by two different carriers.
Why has it been introduced?
This service will provide a better service for our students, staff and the general public and aims to make the Library, the University and the Arts Centre more accessible. The service will also make a difference to the environment and reduce the number of cars and traffic on campus. By using the bus, there will be fewer cars on the road polluting the environment and it will also provide a safer environment for people on campus.
When will the service be up and running?
The new bus route will be fully operational from Thursday 13 September 2012.
Who is running the service?
Mid Wales Travel, a local company based in Penrhyncoch that employs around 35 members of staff. The service will be run using a new 29-seater Enviro200 bus which has a Euro 5 engine, the latest low emission and environmentally friendly model. The bus can also accommodate two wheel chairs and has a ramp to help with access.
Where will I be able to buy tickets for this service?
Daily tickets can be bought on board the bus and an annual pass can be acquired at Aberystwyth University’s Student Union reception.
How much will a return journey from town to the campus cost?
A single journey from town to the campus or vice versa will cost £1 (50p for children). Students, Aberystwyth University and Library staff members will be able to buy an annual pass for £65 which will give an individual unlimited travel throughout the year on this service. Those with a Ceredigion Concessionary Travel Pass will of course be able to use the service for free.
Will cars also be able to use the new link road from the National Library?
No. The new link road will be a designated bus zone but can also be used by those travelling on foot and cyclists. The road is controlled by a barrier which opens as the bus approaches and will not open for general traffic.
MWT Cards can also be used on all other MWT services to include Penparcau, Penrhyncoch, Bow Street, Borth, Lampeter, Llanybydder, Cribyn, Aberaeron, Llanfarian, Llanidloes, Llangurig, Ponterwyd, Goginan and Capel Bangor services at half price.