Plaid Cymru the Party of Wales Euro-MPs have supported new plans in the European Parliament, which will ensure better bus access for the disabled. Jill Evans MEP and Eurig Wyn MEP say the decision is a notable victory in the battle to improve bus facilities for wheelchair users, the blind and the infirm in Wales.

Jill Evans MEP, who is Vice-Chair of the European Parliament's Equal Opportunities Committee said,

"This new legislation involves reducing the height of the first step up into a bus, fitting ramps and non-slip passageways and creating special space for wheelchairs. It also includes the introduction of colour codes to help the partially sighted, for instance on buttons to open doors, on handrails, and the use of white borders on steps.

"Parents travelling with children and buggies, those with temporary injuries, and people with large and heavy luggage or shopping bags will also benefit from this decision. This is good news for them all. These design changes will make a real difference to their daily quality of life."

Eurig Wyn MEP added,

"The definition of 'persons of reduced mobility' is given a broader definition in the directive. It includes not just the elderly and the disabled but all people who experience some difficulty when using public transport.

"All EU countries will now have three years to meet the new rules and introduce the modifications on all new buses. Existing buses already on the road will be allowed to continue in use."

Diwedd/Ends.