Cardiff’s new bus station, the Cardiff Transport Interchange, is finally set to open on Sunday, June 30, after years of anticipation. Located next to Cardiff Central Station, this multi-million pound facility boasts 14 bus bays, office space, 318 apartments, and four retail spaces. While coaches will not be running from this station initially, Transport for Wales (TfW) is working on incorporating this service in the future.
The journey to the completion of this bus station has faced several delays, with the original completion date set for 2022. Despite setbacks, Chief customer and culture officer at TfW, Marie Daly, expressed her excitement for the opening, highlighting the importance of this facility in promoting public transport usage over cars.
Although the bus station will not support coach travel immediately, discussions are ongoing to integrate this service into the transport network. Additionally, while the retail spaces within the station are still in negotiations with potential businesses, the facility is expected to offer a vibrant atmosphere for travelers to shop or relax.
On its opening day, the bus station will operate at about 40% capacity, gradually increasing to accommodate 60 services per hour. This phased approach allows TfW to optimize the customer experience and collaborate with bus operators to deliver the best services.
Inside the station, passengers can expect amenities such as information displays, accessible toilets, charging benches, water refilling stations, and a changing places room. The seamless connection between the bus station and Cardiff Central aims to provide a convenient and integrated journey experience for travelers.
As bus patronage continues to recover post-pandemic, Cardiff Bus Managing Director, Craig Hampton-Stone, noted the increasing interest in public transport for commuting. The new bus station is seen as a quality starting point for bus journeys, contributing to the overall travel experience for passengers.
With the opening of Cardiff’s new bus station, the city anticipates a significant shift towards sustainable and efficient public transport options, encouraging more individuals to choose buses for their daily commutes or leisure travels. The completion of this long-awaited transportation hub marks a milestone in Cardiff’s efforts to enhance its urban mobility infrastructure.