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Friday 14 Nov 2014

Station improvements across South Wales get seal of approval from local politicians

Region & Route:

| Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

| Wales & Western

A multi-million pound scheme to improve five stations in Wales received an enthusiastic reception from politicians when they viewed progress on Friday 14 November.

Owen Smith MP, the Shadow Secretary of State for Wales, was given a tour of the refurbishment underway at Pontypridd station, while Dr Hywel Francis MP and David Rees AM visited Port Talbot Parkway station to get a closer look at the ongoing renovation.

Both stations are being regenerated as part of the £24m Wales Station Improvement Scheme, which is also funding work at Aberystwyth, Rhyl and Ystrad Mynach.

James Jackson, enhancements manager for Network Rail Wales, said: “This is an exciting time for the Welsh railway as we deliver the biggest investment since Victorian times.

“Stations are the railways’ shop front and by revitalising stations across Wales, we can cater for unprecedented passenger growth and help transform the Welsh railway into a world-class infrastructure.

“This work can act as a catalyst for further regeneration in our towns, helping to boost economic growth across Wales.”

Pontypridd station, which once boasted the longest platform in the world, is being transformed with a new station forecourt, entrance and platforms to create a “grand gateway” to the town. The work at the station includes improved lighting, CCTV and the installation of customer information screens, as well as improved access at the station with a new footbridge and lifts. A new platform is being built to enable more trains to run between Pontypridd and Cardiff in the future.

Owen Smith MP said: “Modernising Pontypridd station will transform impressions of the town for people arriving by rail and road.

“I was delighted to see for myself how the work has progressed on this project which will enhance accessibility into Pontypridd and help to boost the local economy.”

Aberavon MP Dr Hywel Francis and Aberavon AM David Rees met Network Rail staff working on the £11.4m project to revitalise Port Talbot Parkway. This involves the demolition of the existing station to make way for a contemporary development, which will feature a striking new enclosed footbridge, complete with lift access to the platforms. This will house the new ticket office, waiting areas, customer facilities, information points and CCTV equipment. There will also be a 111-space car park with a park and ride for commuters and better facilities for cyclists, bus passengers and taxis.

Dr Hywel Francis MP said: “I am delighted that the people of Port Talbot and the whole of South West Wales will be able to benefit from easier access to a station fit for the 21st century.

"The emphasis on better access for the disabled, the elderly and families with prams will be a great improvement and this is great news for the town and neighbouring communities.”

David Rees AM said: “The upgraded, modern station will be easily accessible, family and disabled friendly and will also provide a modern and attractive facility for both residents and visitors. I’m glad that our town will now have the station it deserves. It is an important gateway to our town and all it offers.”

Both Port Talbot Parkway and Pontypridd stations have remained open during construction and workers have done everything possible to minimise disruption for passengers. The work is expected to be completed by spring 2015.

Transport Minister Edwina Hart announced in December 2013 that five stations would be regenerated as part of the £24m Wales Station Improvement Scheme. This is part of a £39m programme to improve rail stations across Wales, with £21m provided by the European Regional Development Fund and £7m Welsh Government funding.