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Thursday 10 Aug 2017

Network Rail showcases £7.5m Mid Wales scheme to improve safety as part of Railway Upgrade Plan

Region & Route:

Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

| Wales & Western

Montgomery’s Assembly Member, Russell George, joined Powys Councillors Diane Jones-Poston and Les George to see rail safety improvements in Talerddig, which are being carried out as part of Network Rail’s Railway Upgrade Plan.

The project includes the construction of two kilometres of new highway and two new road-over-rail bridges at Ystrad Fawr and Rallt, enabling the closure of eight rural railway crossings.

Welsh Government Economy Secretary, Ken Skates, said: “With £3 million funding from the Welsh Government, this will allow essential work to be carried out in Mid Wales to improve rail safety which is a key commitment of the Welsh Government. During this project we will work with our partners, Network Rail, to minimise disruption to services.”

Russell George, AM for Montgomeryshire, said: “It’s fantastic to see the progress on site. I was particularly impressed by the way Network Rail and Powys County Council are working collaboratively to deliver this major infrastructure project, without disrupting rail passengers travelling through the area.”

Andy Thomas, route managing director for Network Rail Wales, said: “We are investing more than £100 million to improve level crossing safety across Britain as part of our Railway Upgrade Plan. The level crossing closures in Talerddig will help reduce risk, improve safety and support the local economy.”

Caersws and Carno County Councillor Les George said: “This vital rail safety project will also produce massive benefits for the local agri-business economy allowing farmers to further invest in their farming enterprise by allowing the safe movement of efficient modern heavy goods vehicles transport. These projects are good value for money for everyone.” 

Councillor Diane Jones-Poston, who represents Llanbrynmair, added: "I've been involved and supported this scheme from its inception so it's really great to see these plans come to fruition. Once complete, it will be much safer and easier for local people to cross the railway."

The upgrade work started in January 2017 and is expected to be completed by spring next year.

The scheme is funded by Network Rail Wales in partnership with Welsh Government, who provided £3m of funding. Powys County Council is delivering the scheme through their contractors Dawnus.