More than 500 people have now signed a petition calling for the 93 bus route through Penarth’s Poets Corner to be restored, as residents say they are still being cut off from everyday life.
The route was changed over a year ago, removing direct access to Poets Corner and replacing it with the number 7 service, which only runs between 10am and 4pm on weekdays and does not operate at weekends.
Previously, the 93 bus was described by locals as a lifeline, connecting people to shops, GP appointments and social activities, and many – particularly elderly and mobility‑impaired residents – say they have been left “isolated” by the changes.
Previously, Irene Harries, 68, told the Penarth Times she now spends up to £25 a day on taxis because she cannot manage the longer walk to the nearest 93 stop and the 7 does not match her caring responsibilities and appointments.
Others say they have had to cut back on work hours, social plans and medical visits because they simply cannot rely on the reduced timetable. Campaigners argue that Poets Corner has effectively lost a core public service, despite previous assurances that changes would improve bus coverage across Penarth.
The petition, which has passed 500 signatures, calls on the Vale of Glamorgan Council and Cardiff Bus to bring back a direct, all‑day service through Poets Corner, including evenings and weekends.
Residents say they recognise the need to balance routes serving Llandough Hospital, Andrew Road and the Cowslip Estate, but believe that should not come at the expense of an established community with high numbers of older and disabled people.
Locals who have spoken to the Penarth Times say they want “a basic, reliable bus” rather than lengthy explanations about route planning, and are urging decision‑makers to visit the area and see the impact for themselves.
They argue that, without a meaningful change to the timetable or route, Poets Corner will remain a “dead end” for anyone who depends on public transport.
