New trains promised next year

The Welsh Government has committed to introducing brand-new trains on the Cambrian railway line from 2026, following years of passenger complaints about overcrowded services between Shrewsbury and Aberystwyth.

The announcement came during questioning in the Senedd this week by Russell George MS, who has been campaigning for improvements to the route that serves communities including Newtown. Mr George highlighted growing frustration among mid Wales residents who have endured overcrowded trains and broken promises from Transport for Wales and previous Welsh Government ministers.

Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport, Ken Skates MS, confirmed the investment in new rolling stock during exchanges on 4 June, acknowledging the strong resurgence in passenger demand on the route.

"I'm pleased to say that we are introducing brand-new trains on the Cambrian line from next year, and that we're working very closely at present with Network Rail and also with CAF, who are going to be providing those brand-new trains," Mr Skates told the Senedd.

The commitment comes as passenger numbers on the Cambrian line have recovered dramatically following the pandemic, now reaching up to 98% of pre-COVID levels according to the Shrewsbury-Aberystwyth Rail Passengers Association (SARPA). Transport for Wales has experienced one of the largest increases in rail patronage of any operator in Britain, with further growth expected in the coming months.

Mr George, who recently met with SARPA representatives, pressed the Transport Secretary on the repeated delays in introducing new rail stock and the deferral of promised hourly services until 2026.

"Given that, and in light of the repeated delays in introducing new rail stock and the deferral of the promised hourly service until 2026, and even then, only in the summer months, I asked the Transport Secretary what positive news he could provide today," Mr George said following the session.

The Cabinet Secretary confirmed that alongside the new trains from manufacturer CAF, infrastructure improvements are being made in partnership with Network Rail to ensure the route is prepared for the upgraded fleet. However, he stopped short of addressing calls for a full year-round hourly service.

Mr George expressed disappointment that his calls for an all-year hourly service were not addressed, though he welcomed confirmation of the new rolling stock and infrastructure upgrades.

"I was glad the Cabinet Secretary confirmed that new rail and infrastructure would be upgraded in 2026, but I was disappointed that he didn't answer my calls for a year-round hourly service," he said.

The Cambrian line, which connects Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth via stations including Newtown, has long been a source of concern for passengers and local representatives who have campaigned for improved services and capacity to meet growing demand.