Rail firm plans Carmarthen-London service

AN INDEPENDENT rail firm is hoping to launch a rival train service in Wales which they say will slash journey times between Carmarthen and London.

Grand Union Trains is making a fresh bid to introduce an initial service in both directions between Cardiff and London on the existing Great Western line.

The company believes the move will “create passenger choice” and increase the number of trains available, with the hope that the service can be extended west in south Wales towards Carmarthen.

The plans will also see the creation of a new station at Felindre, near the M4, and bypass Swansea train station altogether, cutting travel time for those travelling to or from Carmarthen and Llanelli, while the new station will also be home to a park and ride facility for around 500 vehicles.

The company wants to start the Cardiff to London service as early as May next year, before extending it to include Llanelli and Carmarthen in time for May 2025. A spokesman for

Grand Union Trains said: “This service will create passenger choice, increase service frequency and provide improved connectivity.

“The initial service is planned to start in 2023 with calling points of Cardiff Central, Newport, Severn Tunnel Junction and Bristol Parkway, then express to London Paddington.