Plans for five new stations in South Wales
AMBITIOUS plans by Transport for Wales (TfW) for five new stations in South East Wales between Cardiff and Severn Tunnel Junction have moved a step closer following the launch of a 13-week public consultation, which runs until January 14, 2024.
The proposals form part of the South-East Wales Transport Commission’s recommendations for tackling vehicle congestion on the M4 motorway. The scheme aims to improve connectivity between suburban communities and key regional destinations in SE Wales and SW England.
TfW is planning new stations at Cardiff East, Newport West, Somerton, Llanwern and Magor & Undy, along with new train services.
The consultation will include what type of facilities are envisaged at each station by prospective passengers, who are also being asked for their views on new train services between Cardiff, Bristol and Cheltenham Spa.
TfW envisages that at least two, and up to four trains per hour in each direction will call at the proposed new stations. These will include the existing hourly Cardiff to Cheltenham services, supplemented by an additional Cardiff-Newport-Cheltenham service, also calling at all stations. A two trains per hour (30 minute frequency) service between Cardiff, Newport and Bristol Temple Meads calling at all stations will supplement the existing two trains per hour ‘fast’ services.
Geoff Ogden, chief transport planning and development officer, said: “Our vision for Wales is one in which we all have more opportunities to live healthier and happier lives. For us, unlocking the capability of the South Wales mainline is key to changing how people travel in the region.
“We are proud to share our proposals for five new stations between Cardiff Central and Severn Tunnel Junction, that together with the new services will offer more people the opportunity to travel on the railway.”
The consultation can be accessed at: haveyoursay.tfw.wales/sew-new-stations-and-services. Emails on the proposals can be sent to engagement@tfw.wales with the subject
‘New stations and services consultation’.