Transport for Wales have announced the details of the £194 million investment plan to improve all 247 railway stations across Wales.
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The Station Improvement Vision highlights what improvements customers and communities can expect to see at their local stations over the next fifteen years.
The ambitious programme will deliver free WiFi, improved shelters, CCTV, improved provision for cycle storage and improved passenger information, at every station.
Where possible, Transport for Wales will also create new retail facilities, presenting opportunities for local businesses and work in partnership to develop community spaces at stations.
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The improvements include expanding the Secure Station Accreditation programme, a UK accreditation in conjunction with the British Transport Police, which will make stations safer and more welcoming for customers.
Demonstrating their commitment and supporting Welsh Government’s plans to create a more sustainable Wales through deduction in carbon emissions generated through transport, TfW will create at least 1,500 additional car parking spaces across the network, making it easier for people to leave their car and use public transport.
The Vision also highlights how accessibility will be enhanced across the network with the delivery of eleven Access for All schemes by 2024, with the installation of footbridges with lifts or ramps, part funded by the UK Department for Transport.
As part of their plans to reinvest into the communities they serve, TfW has held events and workshops aimed at small and medium enterprises in Wales, providing opportunities for them to bid for work linked to the Station Improvement Vision.
Lloyd Jones, a rail commuter, who frequently uses services in South Wales said:
“It’s great to hear about the investment that will be spent on railway stations across Wales. As a regular commuter I’m fully aware of the need for stations to have facilities for customers and also the need for them to be welcoming and safe places.”
James Price, Transport for Wales CEO said:
“Transport for Wales is transforming transport throughout Wales and the launch of our Station Improvement Vision indicates the start of a £194 million investment programme. This investment into all our 247 railway stations will improve the way they look, make them safer and provide more commercial and community opportunities.
“We want to improve the overall customer experience and also work collaboratively to develop partnerships with local businesses and communities.”
Ken Skates, Minister for Economy and Transport said:
“I warmly welcome Transport for Wales’ Station Improvement Vision, which will see a £194 million investment in railway stations the length and breadth of Wales and the Borders. Over the next 15 years this huge investment will vastly improve important gateways to our cities, towns and villages.
“The vision has been launched in Swansea – as it celebrates its 50th year as a City – where it will contribute to the development of a metro system ready to meet the transport needs of the future. There are ambitious plans to deliver an improved railway and public transport network across all of Wales and the investment announced today will be a significant step towards that.”
Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart said:
“I applaud TfW’s investment in Swansea’s High Street Station; I’m pleased they’re working with the council to improve this crucial gateway to the city.
“A brighter, fresher, more modern welcome to rail users into Swansea is very welcome; it complements the council’s plans to regenerate the city centre and the High Street area.
“Being the first project in TfW’s all-Wales station improvement vision, this adds to the excitement being generated by the celebrations around our 50th anniversary as a city.
“Swansea is undergoing its biggest regeneration for more than a generation. We are creating new opportunities that will see thousands more people live, work and play in the city centre.
“Major projects include the £130m indoor arena complex which, as part of the Swansea Central development, is allied to the £1.3bn Swansea Bay City Deal.”
