(Title Image: © Copyright Jaggery and licensed for reuse under Creative Commons Licence BY-SA-2.0)
Earlier this afternoon during questions to the Economy Minister in the Senedd, Huw Irranca-Davies AM (Lab, Ogmore) asked for an update on long-standing proposals to increase the frequency of services on the Maesteg rail line from hourly to half-hourly.
“We recognise that this will not be an overnight fix, but to increase the frequency will not only be good for passengers along the north of Bridgend line, but actually along the whole of the mainline, because it could relieve pressure.”
– Huw Irranca-Davies AM
Economy & Transport Minister, Ken Skates (Lab, Clwyd South), confirmed that a report on half-hourly services was submitted to the Welsh Government over the summer. He also confirmed that Sunday rail services to and from Maesteg will start under a new timetable from 15th December 2019.
In a further question from Suzy Davies AM (Con, South Wales West), she asked about delays to a key piece of infrastructure which will allow half-hourly services – a passing loop at Tondu. She expressed disappointment at the low priority it was given by the Cardiff City Region and that a budget to pay for the passing loop has been continuously deferred.
There was some good news there too:
“I’m pleased to say that TfW (Transport for Wales) are, with regard to the Llynfi passing loop, already carrying out an early technical assessment of the reeves of that particular loop, and in addition improvements at Tondu station. But I’d happily meet with the Member to look at additional services and infrastructure improvements that could be made in her area.”
– Economy & Transport Minister, Ken Skates
