Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Transport and North Wales, today confirmed plans that will enable a major rail
capacity boost on the North Wales Mainline in 2026.
Transport for Wales will increase rail capacity by 40%, with 50%
more timetabled services, supported by an £800m investment in
brand new CAF trains and the recruitment of additional drivers
and train crew.
Changes at a number of level crossings are required to be able to
operate these additional services on the line.
To support this, Network Rail and Transport for Wales are jointly
undertaking a programme of local consultation, planning and
development work to close four level crossings along the North
Wales mainline.
Proposals include a temporary footbridge, and in future a
permanent, accessible footbridge near Pensarn closing two
footpath crossings, with a similar approach at Prestatyn, closing
two nearby crossings and removing a temporary speed restriction.
Meanwhile, Network Rail and Transport for Wales are continuing to
engage with stakeholders and the local community on the permanent
closure of a footpath crossing on the branch line in Deganwy.
Speaking on a visit to Flint station, Transport
Secretary, said:
“I'm delighted that we now have firm plans in place to deliver
this massive increase in rail capacity for North Wales. These
safety upgrades will enable Transport for Wales to significantly
increase connectivity with many more services and a real
transport choice for communities in North Wales.
“It shows what partnership working can deliver: at industry level
through Network Rail and Transport for Wales, and with a UK
Government in Westminster working collaboratively with the Welsh
Government.”
Secretary of State for Wales, said:
“Working alongside the Welsh Government we are determined to make
major improvements to rail services right across Wales.
“The unlocking of increased rail capacity in North Wales is just
the beginning and we will continue to work together to transform
services for passengers for generations to come.”
Marie Daly, Chief Customer and
Culture Officer at TfW said:
"TfW is continuing to invest and transform rail services in Wales
and the Borders and these future changes will help us further
improve the customer experience.
"We'll be able to increase connectivity and offer more rail
services for the people of North Wales."
Emma Osborn, Passenger strategy director,
Wales & Borders, Network Rail said:
“We look forward to working closely with Denbighshire and Conwy
Councils, residents and others to improve safety on the railway
and also deliver timetable improvements for our communities in
North Wales. We welcome the Cabinet Secretary visit to Flint
Station today and his continued support for these opportunities.”
At Flint station the Cabinet Secretary saw a range of station
upgrades that are being delivered to transform the station for
passengers.
These include upgrades to shelters, waiting rooms, toilet
facilities and a new seating area as well as the installation of
a new fully accessible footbridge – providing step free access at
Flint for the very first time.
Notes to editors
Note:
The level crossings are:
Pen Uchaf and Ty Gwyn level crossings near Pensarn
Sandy Lane and Beverly Drive level crossings near Prestatyn
Deganwy
