£445M for Wales rail

The transformative rail package will reconnect Wales’s industrial heartlands, improve commuter journeys and drive economic growth in communities that have long suffered from poor transport links.

The package will invest in both north and south Wales, fixing level crossings, building new stations, and upgrading existing lines

This strategic rail investment forms the cornerstone of the UK Government’s plan to reconnect, reindustrialise and renew Wales – addressing decades of underinvestment in critical infrastructure that has held back the Welsh economy.

The rail upgrades will specifically link centres of advanced manufacturing excellence in North Wales and improve vital connections between Cardiff and Bristol, making it easier for businesses to invest and for workers to access employment opportunities.

Alongside this major transport investment, the Spending Review delivers significant backing for Wales’s key industrial sectors.

In Port Talbot, a combined investment of up to £580M will secure the future of steelmaking while transforming the port into a clean energy hub. Within this, £500M for Tata Steel’s new Electric Arc Furnace will protect 5,000 jobs while reducing carbon emissions.

Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens, said:  “This UK Government is investing in Wales’ future and driving economic growth across the country.

“We promised we would deal with the historical under-investment in Wales’ rail network and the funding announced today in this Spending Review shows we are delivering on that pledge.

“Along with a record financial settlement for Welsh Government to improve public services, £118m more to help keep coal tips safe and investment in growing industries like aerospace, we are backing Wales’ potential and delivering for working people.”

Image: Ceri Breeze / Shutterstock.com

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