Welsh stations miss out on UK Government investment

The Welsh Government has also said it is in the early stages of considering alternative funding arrangements for stations that have not been selected.

On 26^th February the UK Government confirmed investment in accessibility improvements in rail stations in Great Britain. Ruabon, Haverfordwest and Whitchurch (Shropshire) were all endorsed by the Welsh Government, but have not been selected by the UK Government in the final funding allocations.

Additional regional accessibility improvements at a further 30 stations were endorsed by the Welsh Government but declined by the UK Government.

The schemes selected were lift additions at Grangetown, Llantwit Major (2), Pontypool and Neath, all through joint funding from the Department for Transport, Transport for Wales, and third party funding (for example local authorities).

Part of Transport for Wales’ funding offer could be used to help schemes that have not been selected, though it may have to meet additional costs from approved schemes. The Welsh Government and Transport for Wales are in discussions over this issue.

Ken Skates, Economy, Transport and North Wales Minister, commented:

“It is disappointing that the UK Government has decided to invest in just 4 of the 7 projects we had promoted and offered to match fund.

“I have therefore asked Transport for Wales and rail industry partners to urgently consider the scope for using the matched funding commitment we offered to progress step free access at the excluded stations, under our own direct investment. This is because of the U.K. Government’s failure to deliver the investment they are responsible for.

“Stations with strong community support for step free upgrades have been excluded from funding. Unfortunately it is another example where passengers are set feel the effect of the UK Government’s continuing underinvestment in Welsh railways.”

“Meanwhile, I am pleased that work will go ahead at the four successful stations.”