£194m investment to transform all rail stations in Wales
DETAILS of a £194 million investment plan to improve all 247 railway stations across Wales have been announced by Transport for Wales.
The Station Improvement Vision highlights what improvements customers and communities can expect to see at their local stations over the next 15 years.
The programme will deliver free WiFi, improved shelters, CCTV, improved provision for cycle storage and improved passenger information, at every station.
Where possible, Transport for Wales (TfW) will also create new retail facilities, presenting opportunities for local businesses and work in partnership to develop community spaces at stations.
The improvements include expanding the Secure Station Accreditation programme, a UK accreditation in conjunction with the British Transport Police, which will make stations safer and more welcoming for customers.
TfW will create at least 1,500 additional car parking spaces across the network, making it easier for people to leave their car and use public transport.
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The Vision also highlights how accessibility will be enhanced across the network with the delivery of eleven Access for All schemes by 2024, with the installation of footbridges with lifts or ramps, part funded by the UK Department for Transport.
As part of their plans to reinvest into the communities they serve, TfW has held events and workshops aimed at small and medium enterprises in Wales, providing opportunities for them to bid for work linked to the Station Improvement Vision.
James Price, Transport for Wales CEO said: “Transport for Wales is transforming transport throughout Wales and the launch of our Station Improvement Vision indicates the start of a £194 million investment programme.
“This investment into all our 247 railway stations will improve the way they look, make them safer and provide more commercial and community opportunities.
The investment has been welcomed by Ken Skates, Minister for Economy and Transport who says it will “vastly improve” the gateways to towns and cities across Wales.
Mr Skates said: “I warmly welcome Transport for Wales’ Station Improvement Vision, which will see a £194 million investment in railway stations the length and breadth of Wales and the Borders. Over the next 15 years this huge investment will vastly improve important gateways to our cities, towns and villages.”