May timetable change sees increase in train services

An increase in Transport for Wales (TfW) train services comes into effect in May reversing many pandemic cuts.

From Sunday 15 May, a new rail timetable will be in place across the Wales and Borders rail network.

This will include the return of a number of services across North, Mid and West Wales that were removed from the timetable as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, providing a boost to capacity ahead of a summer tourist season.

The May-December timetable period is also expected to include the introduction of the first of TfW’s brand new trains.

The first new trains for the Wales and Borders network are planned to enter service on routes in North Wales and the Borders during the summer.

While the times of many services will be unaffected, TfW say customers should still ensure they double-check their departure, arrival and connection times.

Among the key changes are nine additional services each way per day along the North Wales Coast between Chester and Llandudno Junction, including the return of direct services between Llandudno and Manchester Airport, and six extra services each way between Swansea and West Wales.

TfW is also reintroducing two additional return services between Aberystwyth and Shrewsbury, and along the Conwy Valley Line between Llandudno Junction and Blaenau Ffestiniog.

In Cardiff, TfW is restoring direct services between Coryton and Radyr, and the shuttle service between Cardiff Queen Street and Cardiff Bay will also return, reintroducing key connections within the city.

Colin Lea, Transport for Wales Planning and Performance Director, said: “We are introducing more services across our network and making adjustments elsewhere from 15 May. It’s really important for customers to check their journey details ahead of travelling.

“As we welcome more customers back to our services, some trains will be busier than they have been for a while, especially in the busy holiday periods. For those customers who wish to travel on quieter services, we recommend using our Capacity Checker tool.”

TfW say that South Wales Metro transformation works will continue to take place over the summer, including in evenings and at weekends when the network is quieter, so customers should always check before travelling to find out if their service is affected.

(Lead image: Transport for Wales)