Government accepts MPs’ recommendation that a Wales Rail Board be established to drive improvements

In its response to the Welsh Affairs Committee’s report, Railway Infrastructure in Wales, the UK Government has partially accepted a recommendation to create a dedicated forum to deliver improvements for rail passengers in Wales.

During the inquiry the Committee was told that a joined-up and clearer approach is needed to unlock rail investment to drive improvements. Accordingly, the Committee’s report recommended the creation of a Wales Rail Board, “consisting of itself, the Welsh Government, Network Rail, the rail operators providing services in Wales, and Transport for Wales. The Board would be tasked with identifying and developing a prioritised set of proposals for rail infrastructure improvement and investment in Wales”. In response, the UK Government has said it recognises the potential benefits raised by the Committee and is proposing the creation of a senior-level Board with responsibilities including the development and delivery of railway enhancements. The Government has said that the Board will comprise director-level representation from Welsh Government, Department for Transport, Transport for Wales, Network Rail, and other train operators serving passengers in Wales. It is intended to first meet this calendar year.

Welsh Affairs Committee Chair, Rt Hon Stephen Crabb MP, said:

“The UK Government’s move to introduce a Wales Rail Board is very welcome news. We heard from numerous witnesses during our inquiry that more coordination is needed to drive investment and improvements, and I hope the Board will deliver this. It’s also very welcome the speed in which they will start convening, and I hope people across Wales will start feeling the benefits feed through to their railway journeys.”