A rail network fit for Wales’ future

Now and in 2020 passengers, communities and businesses in Wales benefit from big changes happening on our railway.

Big Changes now and in 2020

Trains

£40 million train refurbishment programme in 2020 on Transport for Wales trains

Stations, tracks, depots

In 2020 a new station will open at Bow Street on the Cambrian Line, connecting a new community to the rail network
More than 200 ticket machines will be installed at stations, along with Wi-Fi

Communities

From January 2020, Transport for Wales will offer free travel for children under the age of 11, as well as under-16s on off-peak services when accompanied by a fare paying adult
A new Transport for Wales Railcard will save 18 year-olds 50% on all fares
In 2020 three new Community Rail Partnerships will be launched across South and West Wales

Major upgrade work

Electrification of the South Wales Mainline to Cardiff by January 2020 means for the first time, Intercity Express trains can run between London and Cardiff on electricity, cutting journey times for passengers
2020 work will start on renewing Grade II listed Barmouth Viaduct, which provides a critical link for passengers travelling across Mid and North West Wales

View all the big changes happening across Britain

Changes happening now in Wales

Below are press releases from rail companies in Wales promoting changes and improvements happening in the area.

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People across Wales support rail companies’ proposals for change

The rail industry recognise the need for big changes, that's why together we submitted proposals for a radical alternative to the current franchising system to the independently-chaired Williams review looking into the future of Britain's railway. We proposed for a more customer focussed, joined-up and accountable railway.

Find out more about our Big Plan for change