Five new Welsh train stations considered

The UK and Welsh governments are looking at plans to build up to five new railway stations in South Wales to relieve congestion on the M4. 

A £2.7m feasibility study has been funded by the Department for Transport following recommendations made by Lord Peter Hendy in his review of transport connectivity across the UK’s four separate nations. 

The review recommended new rail connections as a priority to relieve congestion on the M4 between Newport and Cardiff. 

The new study will consider a series of options, including the development of five new stations between Cardiff and Severn Tunnel on the South Wales Main Line.

UK transport minister Richard Holden said: “Delivering better transport links is a vital part of how we transform opportunities for people from across the United Kingdom.

“That’s why I am so delighted that, working with the Welsh Government, we are getting the ball rolling on in-depth work to boost connectivity and drive growth.”

The Union Connectivity Review, published in 2021, outlined options to strengthen transport links across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland with the aim of creating a more cohesive and connected UK.

Research carried out for the report highlighted how important travel across the border between Wales and England is, with a large number of people travelling daily for work, services and leisure.

Secretary of State for Wales David TC Davies said: “Good transport connections between south Wales and western England are essential for the economy in Wales, enabling businesses to grow and flourish and making life easier for people to travel for work and leisure.

“This funding from the UK Government is vital in exploring how best to relieve congestion across south Wales. I’m pleased to work with the Welsh Government on plans that could have a huge impact on the many thousands of people who use the transport network in south Wales every day.”

Lord Hendy also proposed reviewing the route connecting north Wales to the north-west of England, better connectivity with HS2 and a package of railway improvements to increase connectivity and reduce journey times between Cardiff, Birmingham and beyond.

In June 2021, the Welsh Government announced a halt to all future road-building projects pending the outcome of a review, with the aim of shifting more people towards public transport in order to cut carbon emissions. Further detail on the plans for road schemes is expected in future strategy announcements from the body.