Transport for Wales to reintroduce 1970s trains
News reported in the weekend’s press claims the Welsh Government’s Transport for Wales programme has derailed from its initial grand claims of delivering ‘modern transport infrastructure,’ with the reintroduction of old trains and a disastrous delay over disabled facilities at stations.
Commenting, Shadow Minister for Business, Economy and Infrastructure, Russell George AM, said:
“We’ve known for some time that despite the shiny high-tech promises and the introduction of Transport for Wales, the reality of what the Welsh Government is going to provide has dropped far below what they originally committed to, and what commuters need.
“After a disastrous handover of the rail franchise last year which caused delays and disruption to autumn services, confidence in the country’s rail network seems at an all-time low. The fact that tax-payers who thought there might have been light at the end of the rail tunnel with the promise of new trains are now having 1970s carriages palmed off onto them, is far below the standard Wales’ commuters deserve, and isn’t the kind of practical change needed to back Welsh businesses.
“As we continue to await a commitment from the Welsh Government on an M4 relief road, improved rail travel is crucial to keeping businesses moving, easing congestion, and tackling fuel emissions.
“The Welsh Government must ensure Transport for Wales is fit for the future, including ensuring rail travel is open to all. To see only 18 trains made accessible to disabled rail users in the space of nine months is disappointing.”
