PLAID CYMRU representatives have condemned the UK Government over the HS2 rail project, branding it the “Great Welsh Train Robbery”, while calls for a fairer funding settlement for Wales intensify. However, the UK Government insists that Wales benefits indirectly from the high-speed rail project, while the Welsh Labour Government faces questions about its role in addressing the issue.
Ann Davies, Plaid Cymru MP for Caerfyrddin and the party’s Westminster transport spokesperson, criticised the lack of funding for Wales as well as the expected disruption to Welsh rail passengers caused by the construction of Old Oak Common station.
Plaid Cymru’s frustration
Speaking in Westminster on Tuesday (Dec 17), Ms Davies said: “It is well documented that Wales is being robbed of £4 billion in consequential funding from HS2.”
She highlighted the disruption that will affect journeys on the Carmarthen-London route, with some trains expected to be diverted from London Paddington to Euston for up to seven years.
“Welsh passengers will be robbed of their time as trains could be diverted due to the construction of Old Oak Common. It is no wonder that HS2 is being referred to as the Great Welsh Train Robbery.”
Cefin Campbell MS, Plaid Cymru Senedd Member for Mid and West Wales, echoed her concerns:“Wales deserves better connectivity and transport links that serve her people. The Government must stop sidelining Wales and deliver the funding owed.”
UK Government’s response
The UK Government maintains that HS2, classified as an “England and Wales” project, provides indirect benefits to Wales. A spokesperson for the Department for Transport said:
“We are committed to improving services for rail passengers in Wales, investing a record-breaking £2bn in Welsh railways from April 2019 to March 2024. HS2 will deliver economic benefits to all parts of the UK, including Wales, by improving connectivity and reducing congestion.”
The Government argues that the improved rail capacity HS2 provides in England will create opportunities for better services across the wider network, indirectly benefitting Welsh passengers.
Questions for Welsh Labour
Plaid Cymru also criticised the Welsh Labour Government for failing to take a stronger stance. Ann Davies questioned whether the First Minister has made adequate representations to the UK Government about the disruption:
“Can the Minister set out what meetings he has had with the Welsh First Minister regarding the near decade of disruption facing Welsh passengers?”
However, the Welsh Government has consistently called for fairer funding. A spokesperson for the Welsh Government said:
“We continue to press the UK Government for a fair funding settlement that reflects the impact of HS2 on Wales and ensures investment in rail infrastructure.”
Funding disparity
Ann Davies MP also highlighted what she described as historical underinvestment in Wales:
“Despite having 5% of the UK population and 11% of track miles, Wales has received only 1-2% of rail enhancement funding in recent years. Electrification in Wales stands at just 7%, compared to 44% in England and 33% in Scotland.”
Transport experts have supported these concerns. Professor Mark Barry, an advisor to the Welsh Government, said:
“As it is now, we’re supporting a massive scheme in England with no benefit to Wales—and getting no funding. That’s outrageous.”
As disruption looms for Welsh passengers, commuters have expressed concern over overcrowded stations and longer journeys. Passengers travelling to London face diversions, with the situation expected to last up to seven years while construction at Old Oak Common continues.
Plaid Cymru has renewed its call for the UK Government to release the £4 billion it claims is owed to Wales, urging investment in better connectivity and infrastructure.
Cefin Campbell MS added: “The Government must alter its course, deliver the £4 billion Wales is owed, and ensure effective measures are in place to protect Welsh passengers from disruption.”
With the debate showing no signs of slowing, Welsh passengers and politicians alike will be watching closely to see whether funding and disruption concerns are addressed in the coming months.
