Funding saves service number 172 from proposed route changes
Monday 07 July 2025
UK-based public transport company, Stagecoach South Wales, recently announced plans to cancel part of the daytime route provided by the service number 172, from Hendreforgan in Rhondda Cynon Taf to Bridgend Bus Station. However, Welsh Government funding is now set to save the vital service, connecting passengers from the Ogmore Valley and wider to Bridgend town centre.
The proposed changes followed a decline in the number of passengers using the service and would have affected passengers from Evanstown and Gilfach Goch, as well as those from Glynogwr and the eastern side of Blackmill.
Following Stagecoach’s announcement revealing changes to the service, council officers and elected members from across the region have worked diligently to explore options to protect the crucial route. Their efforts have resulted in securing funds via the Welsh Government’s Bus Services Support Grant and Bus Network Grant, allowing the named route to continue.
Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE, Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and with responsibility for transport, said: “We know that residents will be pleased that this route has been saved. This cross-valley route is vital for people to access employment, health, and leisure opportunities across the region, and it was important that we worked with partners to secure the route for the future.
“Working in partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council to keep this crucial route running has been a great achievement, and I am pleased that the route will remain available for residents.”
Cllr Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing, said: “The number 172 bus service currently connects Aberdare, Merthyr Tydfil, Tonyrefail, and Bridgend - its removal would have represented a significant change to cross-valley travel.
“The determination and perseverance of council officers and elected members from Bridgend and Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Councils have proven to be successful. We are all very grateful for the officers’ tenacity in looking after the best interests of communities across the region and enabling the continuation of this essential service.”
“Echoing the sentiments of colleagues, it is a great relief that the bus network connections, so vital for so many people, remain intact. We are thankful to the council officers who have secured the necessary funding to ensure the longevity of the service number 172 in its entirety.”