Swansea based Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Member, Peter Black, has written to Arriva Trains Wales and First Great Western following a survey conducted by Swansea and Gower Liberal Democrats into customers views on the trains, railways and stations.
The survey, conducted during the morning rush hour one morning two weeks ago, revealed a high level of customer dissatisfaction with several areas of service. 100% of respondents felt that toilet facilities, and in particular disabled toilet facilities, were in need of improvement. There was also a high level of dissatisfaction with the price of food. Most respondents also agreed that more carriages and services should be put on at rush hour. Many felt that it is unfair for train companies to provide such a high number of first class carriages for a reasonably low number of customers.
"Our survey has shown us many specific areas where our two local train companies need to improve." said Mr Black. "I don't think some results, such as the problems highlighted with toilet facilities, will surprise many train users. However it is important that we highlight just how strongly customers feel about this or there will be no pressure for companies to implement changes."
"I have asked First and Arriva to look at timetabling between Swansea and Cardiff and Swansea and Llanelli. The problems are not just the frequency of trains but also the number of seats available to passengers. They need to look at varying the size of services during rush hour so as to ensure there is enough room for all that need it."
"I hope that they will look seriously at the suggestions in my letters as they reflect the views of their own customers."
