New train operator announced

A new rail operator has been revealed to operate train services through Welshpool and Newtown and along the Cambrian Railway.

KeolisAmey, a joint venture between French owned Keolis and Spanish owned Amey will take over the running of Wales and the Borders train services, including the Cambrian Railway.

The contract will run from next month until 2033, although the new train services will not start until October this year, with current operator Arriva Trains Wales running services until then.

Arriva Trains Wales had pulled out of the tender for the new contract last year.

"This will be a transformative new rail service for Wales and its borders," said Alistair Gordon, Chief Executive of Keolis UK.

"While the proposed changes won't happen overnight, the railway will be unrecognisable in five years thanks to the vision of the Welsh Government."

The join-venture currently runs the London Docklands Railway and Manchester Metrolink.

The Welsh Government is expected to formally announce the award of the tender in 10 days, following a standstill period.

PICTURE: An Arriva Trains Wales train on the Cambrian Railway (©Owain Betts)