Transport for Wales has now finished electrifying the Core Valley Lines, a key part of the South Wales Metro and one of the UK’s most ambitious rail infrastructure projects.
The final 800-metre stretch between Cardiff Queen Street and Cardiff Bay has been fitted with overhead line equipment, bringing a six-year programme that began in 2020 to a close.
The £1 billion project, often dubbed the ‘Welsh Tube,’ introduced electric tri-mode trains to the South Wales Valleys in 2024.
This spring, 36 fully electric Class 398 tram-trains are set to begin running between Pontypridd and Cardiff Bay, providing more frequent and environmentally friendly services.
The upgraded network is already delivering better punctuality and reliability. The scheme involved major engineering works, including hundreds of miles of overhead wiring, new substations, and advanced smart electrification technology that combines overhead power with battery operation, helping to cut both costs and disruption.
“This is a landmark moment for rail in South Wales. We are finally seeing our ambition become a reality thanks to our unprecedented investment of more than £1bn to transform the CVL, with £800 million on new trains, and years of hard work and commitment from TfW.
“New, faster, modern trains, offering increased capacity and more frequent services helping to transform passenger experiences.
“This is another significant milestone on our mission to transform our railways.”
Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales.
Responses
Perhaps electrify the line between Cardiff Central and Cardiff Queen Street. Plus it would be optional to see electrification on the South Wales main line to extend to Swansea. With the Borders Railway in Scotland that is planned to see electrification to Tweedbank and the Maryhill Line (Glasgow Queen St-Anniesland) could also be upgraded and electrified.