£2.1 Billion North Wales Rail Upgrade Plan Unveiled

The Welsh government has unveiled a £2.1 billion North Wales rail upgrade designed to modernize services, connect cities, and strengthen economic links across the region by 2035. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Transport Secretary Ken Skates presented the plan at the Public Transport Summit in Wrexham, highlighting electrification, modern ticketing, and a Metro-style network linking Wrexham and Liverpool.

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The first phase includes direct services between Wrexham and Liverpool, alongside proposals to double train frequency between Wrexham and Chester by next May. A new Llandudno–Liverpool route is also in development.

Authorities plan to extend the Manchester Airport service to Holyhead and introduce contactless “tap in, tap out” technology to simplify travel across the network.

The Welsh government has committed £13 million in initial funding, but full implementation depends on substantial UK government contributions.

Skates stressed the importance of cooperation across borders and emphasized that strong partnerships are essential to transform these proposals into operational services.

Past rail promises for the region often faced delays or cancellations, raising doubts about future commitments. A 2023 pledge to electrify the mainline with £1 billion in funding has not materialized.

Welsh officials, including Eluned Morgan, continue discussions with Westminster, pushing for significant investment in stations and regional infrastructure projects.

North Wales rail upgrade faces funding challenge

Despite Labour leadership in both Cardiff and London, funding from HS2 consequentials remains unavailable. Morgan continues lobbying through her “Red Welsh Way” strategy to secure priority recognition for key transport plans.

Professor Stuart Cole said the vision mirrors the scale of the South Wales Metro, where the Welsh government funded most of the £1.1 billion cost. He questioned how the North Wales project would be financed.

Business case essential to unlock North Wales rail upgrade

Skates remains confident about securing support in the upcoming Comprehensive Spending Review. He emphasized that building a solid business case is critical to attract Treasury backing and move forward with the investment.

Until UK ministers commit, the project remains a bold vision awaiting funding approval.

Source: www.bbc.com

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