From 14 December, passengers travelling between Swansea and Shrewsbury via the Heart of Wales line will have access to a fifth daily train.
Transport for Wales is adding a new midday service in both directions, increasing the number of trains from four to five per day. The Heart of Wales line runs through Llanelli, Llandeilo, Llandrindod Wells and Knighton, connecting rural towns with Swansea and Shrewsbury.
The change is part of the UK-wide December rail timetable update. Journey planners have already been updated, and passengers can now check times for travel after 14 December.
(Image: TfW)
Funding and political agreement
The extra service is being funded through the Welsh Government’s 2025–26 Budget deal with Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds.
In a statement, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates said:
“The Heart of Wales line provides a spectacular and scenic journey for tourists but is also a vital link for rural communities in Mid Wales, so this will be welcome news for residents and visitors alike.”
“Railway connections are vital in driving prosperity. These changes will make a real difference to customers, who will benefit from more services across Wales and the Borders.”
“This has been made possible by our £800m investment in brand-new trains for the Wales and Borders network.”
Transport for Wales said the new service would give passengers more flexibility for day trips and essential journeys, and help support the local tourism economy.
What it means for passengers
The new train will run midday every day, giving people more choice when planning journeys.
Passengers are being advised to check journey planners for travel after 14 December to see the updated timetable.
This line needs to be re-instated between Gowerton and Pontardulais via Gorseinon. The old track is currently a cycle track with virtually no built up sections. This would not only shorten the journey time between Swansea and Shrewsbury but also return the urban area of Gorseinon to the rail network. Further, it could provide an important link in a future metro system connecting the G.W.R. mainline to the S.D.L.