Better rail on cards for North Wales

RAIL journeys are set to improve in North Wales with new trains, more services and better delay compensation, transport bosses have promised.

Avanti West Coast is now in charge of the operation of longdistance train services across the region, after taking over from Virgin Trains.

The announcement comes as the Welsh Government pledged another £20m cash injection for a North Wales metro system.

According to Avanti West Coast chiefs, there will be a raft of improvements for passengers in the coming months and years, including:

A new fleet of quieter, more accessible and greener bi-mode trains in 2022 on the Holyhead to London Euston route that also serves Bangor , Colwyn Bay, Llandudno Junction , Prestatyn and Rhyl. New trains will have free wi-fi; at-seat wireless inductive charging for electronic devices, plug and USB sockets; a brandnew catering offer and real-time passenger information systems.

The withdrawing of diesel Super Voyager trains cutting CO2 emissions by more than 60%.

More train services between North Wales and England, including an additional service from Llandudno to London Euston, from December 2020.

New direct services from Gobowen (via Wrexham) to London Euston that provides a rail link for nearby Oswestry on the EnglandWales border from December 2022

Enhanced Welsh language provision for Welsh-speaking customers including announcements on Avanti West Coast trains.

Delay Repay 15’ compensation for customers when trains are delayed by 15 minutes or more.

Welsh Government Minister for Economy and Transport, Ken Skates AM, said: “It is good to see the commitment to partnership working and I look forward to having meaningful engagement in the process for developing services to be delivered in the future.

“A commitment to work with Transport for Wales will ensure both franchises work collaboratively for passengers and stakeholders to deliver integrated services that meet the needs of Welsh customers fairly and equitably.

“We want to see improved services and connections for the people of North Wales that will deliver long-term benefits and I’m pleased to see the introduction of a new fleet of greener trains.”

Managing Director of First Rail, Steve Montgomery, said: “Our plans for new, greener trains, and for more services and new destinations will significantly enhance the quality of rail journeys for our customers travelling in and beyond North Wales.”