Investing in transport “vital for a thriving Wales” – says University Vice-Chancellor

Date: Monday, May 12, 2025

Investment in resilient and sustainable transport links is vital for creating a thriving Wales for the future.

That is the view of Professor Joe Yates, Vice-Chancellor of Wrexham University, who will be welcoming influential transport and business leaders from across England and Wales on May 22 and 23, when the institution plays host to Transport for Wales’ first Public Transport Summit.

The two-day event will look to unlock economic prosperity through public transport links, providing an opportunity for the public, private and tertiary sectors to work together and share their aspirations for the future of public transport in Wales and the borders.

Speaking ahead of the summit, Professor Yates said: “Strong transport links drive economic prosperity – and as one of the youngest universities in the UK, we know that we have a crucial responsibility to deliver skills, which drives economic growth for the wellbeing of current and future generations.

“But without efficient and reliable transport networks, businesses will struggle to access markets, workers will have difficulty accessing jobs and regions will be unable to attract vital investment and innovation.

“Accessible transport unlocks opportunities, reduces inequalities and strengthens our community’s resilience, so I am delighted that we will be among the voices represented at Wales’ first Public Transport Summit.

“As an anchor institution here in North East Wales, it’s crucial that we are involved in this important discussion between all sectors with the aim of there being a joined-up vision for the future. Investment in resilient transport links is vital for our current and future generations.”

Professor Yates also highlighted how strong connectivity and transport links to the world-leading piece of legislation – the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 – which puts a legal obligation on public bodies in Wales to act today for a better tomorrow.

“Good transport is fundamental to wellbeing. Accessible, affordable, and efficient transport enhances people's quality of life, enabling access to education, health services, cultural activities, and green spaces, he said.

“This supports multiple goals of the Act, including ‘A Healthier Wales’ and ‘A Wales of Vibrant Culture and Thriving Welsh Language’.”

James Price, Transport for Wales CEO added: “This will be Wales’ first Public Transport Summit and we have an array of very influential and interesting speakers, who will be joining us and be part of the discussion about the future of public transport in Wales and the borders.

“This is about building collaborative working partnerships between all sectors within the transport industry and offering a joined-up vision for the future.  

“I’d encourage all representatives from across the transport sector and business community within Wales and the borders to join us for this event.”

Professor Yates will be just one of the speakers and panellists at the summit – he will be there alongside Michael Williamson, Chief Executive Officer of Wrexham AFC; Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE, DL; Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester; Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales; Mark Pritchard, Leader of Wrexham County Borough Council; Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council; and more.

• More information about the summit, including the full list of speakers and panellists can be found here: www.tfw.wales/summit