A BUS service running between the counties of Gwynedd and Conwy is to be brought to an end by its provider.

The T19 bus, run by Llew Jones Coaches, has been serving passengers from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Llandudno for roughly the last 18 months.

But due to the service becoming “increasingly financially unviable”, Llew Jones said, it will operate for the final time on February 11.

A statement from the company read: “Llew Jones is proud to serve travellers throughout the Conwy Valley and are extremely grateful for the support shown to us by all users of the T19 service.

“However, due to a huge reduction in passengers since the COVID-19 pandemic, and no indications that the numbers will recover any further, the T19 has becoming increasingly financially unviable.

“We have been left with no option but to terminate the service from February 11 to prevent further losses.”

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The T19 bus service stops in Blaenau Ffestiniog, Dolwyddelan, Betws-y-Coed, Llanrwst, Graig, Llansanffraid, Llandudno Junction, Rhos-on-Sea, and Llandudno.

The full journey (opposite Blaenau Ffestiniog train station to The Palladium, Llandudno, or vice-versa) in either direction, normally takes between 75 and 90 minutes.

Llew Jones added: “The decision to withdraw the service has not been taken lightly as we appreciate the impact that this may have on local bus users.

“We have been working closely with Welsh Government, Traws Cymru and Conwy County Borough Council to identify and develop a solution; unfortunately, this has not been possible at this point..

“We remain committed to finding a solution that supports the best interests and needs of all parties concerned.

“However, if we cannot achieve this, then the last day of operation for the T19 service will be February 11.

“No other routes or services are affected by this unfortunate, yet very necessary, decision.

“The 19 service operating between Llandudno and Betws-y-Coed is not affected.”

The MS for Dwyfor Meirionnydd, Mabon ap Gwynfor, said he will raise the issue with both the Welsh Government transport minister and with Llew Jones itself.

He said: “I am very concerned to hear of plans to axe the T19 service from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Llandudno – a service that many of my constituents rely on.

“The impact of this on the elderly, young people, families and more will be very disruptive, and will also cost them much more - a single bus journey costs £5 while a single train journey costs £9.20.

“Furthermore, it will be compounded by a less-than-reliable alternative rail option which frequently suffers from flooding – rendering the line from Blaenau to Llandudno unusable for long periods at a time.

“It is disappointing that talks between the stakeholders have failed to bring about a solution.

“I would like to receive assurances that they have looked at all options before taking this decision, such as changing the timetable.

“I am particularly disappointed given the noise coming from the Welsh Government about investing in public transport.

“This service was introduced only a little over 18 months ago, and so it's surprising that this decision has now been taken.

“I will be raising this as a matter of urgency with the Welsh Government transport minister and requesting talks with the bus company itself.”