Ministers from Wales and Westminster have pledged to work together to reform the railway, improve infrastructure, and deliver better services for passengers in Wales.
At a recent inter-ministerial meeting in London, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Transport, and North Wales, Ken Skates, and UK Government Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, discussed the Welsh Government’s priorities for UK rail reform.
These priorities include establishing a locally driven business unit for Great British Railways in Wales, delivering on commitments to create a Welsh enhancements program, and increasing Wales’s influence on cross-border service specifications.
Commenting following the meeting, Transport Secretary, Ken Skates said: “I’m excited about the UK Government’s plans for rail reform. We’ve committed to working in partnership, alongside industry, to shape a bright future for rail in Wales.
“The decision finally calls time on the broken rail franchising system was an important step. It means the Wales and Borders rail service will remain in public hands – making it easier to integrate rail with bus and deliver on our vision of One Network, One Timetable, One Ticket.
“We’re also working closely with the UK Government to develop a jointly agreed programme of future rail infrastructure enhancements in Wales.”
Rail Minister Lord Hendy said: “We are determined to reform our railways to deliver better services for passengers across all of Great Britain and create a new long-term strategy for a modern, integrated network with passengers at its heart.
“I look forward to working closely with the Welsh Government on its transport priorities and our shared ambitions for rail, delivering infrastructure improvements across the country to boost opportunities and economic growth.”
The partnership between the Welsh Government and the UK Government marks a significant step towards a brighter future for rail in Wales. By working together, the two governments aim to deliver a more integrated, efficient, and passenger-focused railway network.
