Proposals for new train services, stations and joined up
transport in south-east Wales have been outlined by the Welsh
Government, who have called on the UK Government to “play its
part” in delivering improvements to Wales’ railway.
It comes as part of ongoing work to tackle congestion and
improve transport links in the region.
In July the South East Wales Transport Commission published an
‘emerging
conclusions’ report, noting the need for an integrated
network of alternative transport options that do not depend on
the motorway.
Responding to that report today, the Welsh Government has
backed the need for sustainable, long-term alternatives to the
private car.
Part of this response includes the publication of aspirations
and proposals that outline its ambition for rail services.
These would see a major upgrade of the South Wales Main Line in
terms of capacity, line speed, rolling stock and widespread
electrification – leading to improvements such as journey times
of Cardiff-Bristol Temple Meads in 35 minutes and
Cardiff-London in 85 minutes.
The Welsh Government has also taken the opportunity to outline
its aspirations and proposals for North Wales, which would also
lead to increased services, better journey times and
significant infrastructure improvements.
It has re-iterated calls for the UK Government to play its part
in the delivery of these aspirations, in recognition of the
current devolution settlement.
, Minister for Transport, Economy and North Wales,
said:
“I welcome this latest report from the Commission and want to
thank them for their ongoing work. Their report highlights
the need for all partners to come to the table and play their
part in turning its recommendations into reality.
“We are committed to delivering our responsibilities for
buses, road improvements and active travel. The UK Government
must now complete its long delayed rail review, fully devolve
rail matters to Wales, and deliver a fair funding settlement
so we can start to rectify the years of historic
underinvestment by Westminster in the rail network in Wales.
“We will press ahead with the actions we are able to take
now, but the UK Government must play its part to deliver the
major upgrades recommended by the Commission.”
