TRANSCRIPT AND VIDEO BELOW:
Jack Sargeant: Will the Leader of the House make a statement on investment in transport in north Wales?
Julie James: Welcome to the Chamber. I think that's your first question, so I'm delighted to be the one answering it. Our plans for investment across north Wales are detailed in the 'National Transport Finance Plan 2017 Update'. Our resources are directed to achieving a sustainable and integrated transport system that supports all modes of transport.
Jack Sargeant: Thank you. Leader of the house, we know this Government is delivering game-changing investments in Alyn and Deeside, from redevelopment of Shotton station to the £250 million road investment and improvement across the Deeside corridor. This investment is definitely welcomed by my constituents, but I'm sure you'll agree that we can and should do more. Transport links within the local communities and across north Wales are very important as are links from the north to south. But I'm sure you'll agree with me that links with our English neighbours are vital. Will the Minister update us on the work being done to ensure that we have closer economic and transport links with the north-west of England?
Julie James: Yes, very important points. We certainly recognise the importance of improving transport connectivity between north Wales and north-west England, and that's why we're working closely with organisations on both sides of the border to develop and deliver improvements across all transport modes. Representatives from Cheshire West and Chester, Merseyside travel and Wirral are members of the north Wales and north-east Wales metro steering group to ensure we plan and deliver improvements in a joined-up way. In terms of bus services, officers are working closely with Merseytravel to improve bus connectivity between Liverpool and north Wales and we're expecting a proposal to be brought forward by a bus operator to run the long-distance service shortly.
