Cefin Campbell has called on the Welsh Government to improve evening train services for rural communities along the Heart of Wales Line.
Speaking in the Senedd, the Mid and West Wales MS raised concerns about the current timetable, which he said fails to meet the needs of his constituents.
Mr Campbell welcomed news from Transport Secretary Ken Skates, that newly refurbished trains are now operating on the line and that a fifth service is planned for December 2025.
But he said that as of December 2024, the final train from Swansea to Llandrindod Wells leaves at 17:48 - too early, he argued, for many working people or those attending evening events, medical appointments or family obligations.
Video from Senedd.tv
Speaking in the Senedd, the Mid and West Wales MS raised concerns about the current timetable, which he said fails to meet the needs of his constituents.
Mr Campbell welcomed news from Transport Secretary Ken Skates, that newly refurbished trains are now operating on the line and that a fifth service is planned for December 2025.
But he said that as of December 2024, the final train from Swansea to Llandrindod Wells leaves at 17:48 - too early, he argued, for many working people or those attending evening events, medical appointments or family obligations.
Video from Senedd.tv
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NewsTranscript
00:00Could you make a statement on the train services along the Heart of Wales line?
00:04Yes, of course. I can confirm that newly refurbished trains are operating on the Heart of Wales line,
00:10providing additional capacity for local communities and the key tourist market.
00:14And a new fifth service is planned for December 2025,
00:18and the service is planned to be better in the way that it responds to passenger demand,
00:24and we will ensure that it is improved upon the removed service.
00:28Well, I'm glad to hear it'll better respond to passenger demands,
00:32because as of December 2024, the final train service from Swansea to Llandrindo departs at 1748,
00:40leaving many rural constituents unable to return home in the evening to places like Amonford, Llandailo and Llandyfri.
00:49Now, Swansea is Wales' second largest city, a hub for employment, education, health care and culture.
00:55Yet for many rural communities, this timetable fails to accommodate standard working hours, evening events or commitments like medical appointments or family obligations.
01:08Now, the problem also extends to weekends and major events, times when public transport is needed most.
01:14So with no late alternatives or adequate connections, rural communities once again are being left behind.
01:21And worse still, when Pride Cymru called for Wales to receive its fair share of HS2 funding,
01:27which could have supported infrastructures like this, you and your Labour members of the Senate voted it down.
01:33So my question to you, Secretary, is this.
01:35What steps is Transport of Wales taking to assess and improve this timetable to create a transport system that truly connects all of Wales?
01:44And will rural communities like those along the Heart of Wales line continue to be neglected?
01:52Well, first of all, I've been assured by TFW that the timetable changes will lead to improved reliability and punctuality of services on the line.
02:01That's hugely important, as I've just mentioned, in driving patronage up.
02:06If we can drive patronage up, then we drive the fare box up.
02:09We ensure that the service is sustainable for the future.
02:11On the point of HS2, this is a well-rehearsed debate, but let's just wait CSR,
02:17because we have put together our ask for rail investment, which is substantial indeed,
02:23and we have a shared vision with the Department of Transport over what infrastructure needs to be improved in Wales.
02:30Now, the member also makes an important point about the 1748 service.
02:34Obviously, TFW consider local representation when they begin the work on future potential timetable changes.
02:41and I'll ensure that TFW hear what the member has said today
02:44and consider whether or not a later train is required to serve passenger needs.
02:50Peter Fox.
02:51Dior Clowett.
02:53Campus Secretary, Dior.