THE replacement service for Aberystwyth’s park-and-ride bus service between the town centre and Bronglais Hospital will be monitored during a four-month trial period before a decision is made on whether it will continue.

A last-minute deal was brokered between service operator Mid Wales Travel and Ceredigion County Council, which involves the park-and-ride bus service being replaced by a new Aberystwyth circular service that will be operated on a commercial basis by Mid Wales Travel.

That will run until the end of the year. A decision on what will happen from January 2017 will then be ruled on.

The council spokesperson said: “The 503 Aberystwyth Park and Ride service will end on 31 August. From 1 September, a new 503 Aberystwyth circular service will serve all stops formerly served by the park and ride service.

“The new 503 service is being provided on a trial basis in partnership between Ceredigion County Council and Mid Wales Travel.

“The period for the trial will be 1 September until 31 December. Information regarding what happens as of 1 January 2017 will be provided in due course.”

While the replacement bus service will follow the same route, passengers will have to pay for the service, as well as paying to park at the park-and-ride car park.

See this week's south editions for the full story, in shops and online now