The number of rail partnerships across Wales and the Transport for Wales network has increased from five to six as the ‘Three Valleys Community Rail Partnership’ has become the newest Rail Partnership to be established in the UK.

Funded by Transport for Wales (TfW), and made up from representatives from Voluntary Action Merthyr Tydfil (VAMT), the ‘Three Valleys Community Rail Partnership’ has been established to promote tourism, wellbeing and greener travel by train through the Welsh valleys that the partnership covers. Consisting of 35 stations on lines from Cardiff to Aberdare, Merthyr and Treherbert.

Set up in 1997, the Voluntary Action Merthyr Tydfil (VAMT), based in Merthyr, is the host organisation of the newest rail partnership in Wales and is part of the County Borough of Merthyr Tydfil.

Made up of local communities, healthcare professionals, tourism sectors and members of the rail industry, among many others, it has contact with over 500 organisations, 370 of which are part of VAMT.

The launch of this new partnership will also help local communities and businesses to make a difference in the areas through which the railway serves.

“We’re delighted to launch the partnership and welcome everyone associated with the Three Valleys to the Community Rail family. The railway is an important part of the Valleys heritage. By providing a voice for the community, the partnership can help people take full advantage of the enhancements being delivered by the South Wales Metro.”

Melanie Lawton, Strategic Lead for Community Rail at Transport for Wales

“As host organisation, VAMT is extremely proud of our officer’s role in shaping this partnership, and we look forward to the possibilities it opens up for innovation, growth, and long-term value across our communities”.

Sharon Richards, Chief Officer for Voluntary Action Merthyr Tydfil