The Welsh Government has launched a renewed drive to secure greater control over the country’s rail network, arguing that decades of underinvestment have left Wales with an unfair share of UK rail funding.
As part of its first 100-day programme, ministers have begun negotiations with the UK Government seeking a fairer funding settlement, stronger decision-making powers and a longer-term ambition of full rail devolution.
Despite accounting for around 10% of Britain’s rail network by track length, Wales has received just 1.5% of total UK rail investment over the past 15 years, according to the Welsh Government.
Three immediate priorities
The Welsh Government has identified three immediate actions to improve rail services while wider discussions continue.
These include working with the Department for Transport to accelerate delivery of previously committed schemes, including the Burns stations programme, which aims to improve connectivity and ease congestion on the M4 corridor.
Ministers also plan to engage with the UK Government’s forthcoming Railways Bill to strengthen Wales’ influence over rail policy and decision-making, while negotiations continue over a funding settlement that better reflects the country’s transport needs.
Case for full rail devolution
Alongside these immediate measures, the Welsh Government is continuing to press for full devolution of rail infrastructure, bringing responsibility for both track and train under Welsh control.
Ministers argue that decisions on investment and services would be better made in Wales, allowing the railway to be developed around the needs of local communities and the wider Welsh economy.
The proposals form part of the government’s wider strategy to improve transport infrastructure and support economic growth through better-connected public services.
Deputy Minister for Transport Mark Hooper said: “For decades, the UK Government has admitted it has failed to invest in the Welsh rail network and instead allowed it to decline. Our ambition is to change that—we have a vision of a devolved rail network, where rail services are designed around the needs of our people, our communities, and our economy.
“Decisions over rail investment should be made here in Wales, not Westminster.
“A rail network that is designed in Wales, delivered in Wales, and accountable to the people of Wales.
“We know this journey won’t happen overnight, but we have a pathway and the determination to see it through because when our transport network succeeds, Wales works better.”
