Seeing Red

Clayton Jones is back. His suitably patriotic St David’s Travel starts its competitive strike in Cardiff, Wales, tomorrow. Odd day to start a bus service. But, since Jones sold Shamrock Travel (Wales) to Veolia for some £10mil, he’s been unable to start again for three years. That period elapses tomorrow. You get the impression that Jones simply just can’t wait to get back in there…

The bus service in question is the 10-minute 18A between Ely & Cardiff. Following the traffic commissioner’s views and those of the OFT, when Cardiff Bus was roundly criticised over its predatory behaviour towards 2Travel, it will be interesting to see what action Cardiff Bus *won’t* take against the newcomer in its midst. Perhaps, at double the St David’s Travel frequency on Cardiff Bus’ Capital City Red 17/18, it won’t need to react.

Capital City Red sers 17/18 meets Bay Car 6. Both are articulated

Jones is one of the industry’s most famous characters. Or should that be infamous? There are two ways of viewing Jones. He either was an adventurer who energetically embraced deregulation to the fullest, offering choice. Or he was someone of questionable character who single handedly messed up public transport in the Valleys, while keeping just half a step ahead of the Vehicle Inspectorate, latterly VOSA. Though he *was* caught by VOSA.

What we do know is what Clayton thinks of Clayton, a view that is now quite celebrated. Some would say his statement was slightly arrogant but we would all do well to remember that lower cost competition offers cheaper fares, something prized by passengers.

Established Capital City Red 17/18 operates 12 times an hour

And it seems Jones continues to court controversy. Jones as managing director of not for profit Caerphilly community transport operator CATS is offering a demand responsive “Hospital Quick” service from selected suburb to Cardiff’s university hospital. Yet, there are already reports of a loss of local authority contracts for CATS.