TRANSPORT FOR WALES is taking over the national rail service from Arriva Trains Wales tomorrow (Oct 14).
Arriva, who has managed the train service for the last 15 years, have regularly been criticised for crowded services and delays.
Keolisamey, who won the £5bn bid to take over the service as Transport for Wales, say they will spend £800m on new trains, increasing capacity by two-thirds, and provide new trains for 95% of journeys within five years.
Transport for Wales is promising many improvements for commuters, including:
- More seats and longer in length
- Air conditioning
- Power and USB sockets for each seat
- Step-free wheelchair and pushchair access
- Space for up to six bikes
- Real-time travel information on each train
Carwyn Jones, the First Minister, has called the plans a ‘landmark moment in the future development of Wales’.
He said: “People said they wanted affordable fares and newer, cleaner trains and we have worked hard to ensure this is reflected in what we are launching today.”
All new trains, rail cars and buses will be red and black, and branded with Transport for Wales logos, rather than company logos.
The French-Spanish joint venture said that half of the new trains will be built in Wales and £1.9bn is being put towards improving the travel experience for passengers.
Alistair Gordon, Chief Executive of Keolis UK, said: “For too long the railways in Wales have suffered from under investment and, while the changes we need to make will take time, we are creating a platform for future economic growth and prosperity that will benefit all of Wales now and for generations to come.”
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