#transportforwales — Public Fediverse posts

Rail disruption between Shrewsbury and Birmingham as freight train derails near Wolverhampton

Commuters are facing significant travel disruption today after a freight train derailed at Oxley between Wolverhampton and Bilbrook,…
#Birmingham #UnitedKingdom #UK #GB #England #Headlines #News #Europe #EU #Britain #GreatBritain #NetworkRail #TransportforWales #WestMidlandsRailway
https://www.europesays.com/uk/943110/

https://www.europesays.com/videos/19129/ Roads and rail: How parties plan to improve Welsh transport | Wales Decides 2026 | ITV Cymru Wales #bus #itv #ItvNews #ITVNewsInFull #ItvWales #M4 #M4ReliefRoad #PublicTransport #rail #roads #SeneddElection #traffic #Trains #TransportForWales #WalesTraffic #WalesTravel #WelshGovernment #WelshTransport #WelshTravel

I think the #GreenParty should spin its proposed #SpeedLimit policy slightly differently - and just say "we will reassess all speed limits on #UK #roads, selecting maximums of 50 to 60 mph where appropriate" this enables use of existing road signs and limits that drivers are familiar with, isn't wildly different from what local Councils and #NationalHighways / #TrafficScotland / #TransportForWales are doing anyway, gives #gammons a less obvious headline than unusual 55 mph limit and they don't have that long attention spans..

Incidentally I've now been driving 7 years and even in that relatively short time I've seen multiple rural roads across #Suffolk and #Essex change limits from 60 mph to 40-50 mph - all areas with Conservative Councils!

I think the #GreenParty should spin its proposed #SpeedLimit policy slightly differently - and just say "we will reassess all speed limits on #UK #roads, selecting maximums of 50 to 60 mph where appropriate" this enables use of existing road signs and limits that drivers are familiar with, isn't wildly different from what local Councils and #NationalHighways / #TrafficScotland / #TransportForWales are doing anyway, gives #gammons a less obvious headline than unusual 55 mph limit and they don't have that long attention spans..

Incidentally I've now been driving 7 years and even in that relatively short time I've seen multiple rural roads across #Suffolk and #Essex change limits from 60 mph to 40-50 mph - all areas with Conservative Councils!

I think the #GreenParty should spin its proposed #SpeedLimit policy slightly differently - and just say "we will reassess all speed limits on #UK #roads, selecting maximums of 50 to 60 mph where appropriate" this enables use of existing road signs and limits that drivers are familiar with, isn't wildly different from what local Councils and #NationalHighways / #TrafficScotland / #TransportForWales are doing anyway, gives #gammons a less obvious headline than unusual 55 mph limit and they don't have that long attention spans..

Incidentally I've now been driving 7 years and even in that relatively short time I've seen multiple rural roads across #Suffolk and #Essex change limits from 60 mph to 40-50 mph - all areas with Conservative Councils!

I think the #GreenParty should spin its proposed #SpeedLimit policy slightly differently - and just say "we will reassess all speed limits on #UK #roads, selecting maximums of 50 to 60 mph where appropriate" this enables use of existing road signs and limits that drivers are familiar with, isn't wildly different from what local Councils and #NationalHighways / #TrafficScotland / #TransportForWales are doing anyway, gives #gammons a less obvious headline than unusual 55 mph limit and they don't have that long attention spans..

Incidentally I've now been driving 7 years and even in that relatively short time I've seen multiple rural roads across #Suffolk and #Essex change limits from 60 mph to 40-50 mph - all areas with Conservative Councils!

I think the #GreenParty should spin its proposed #SpeedLimit policy slightly differently - and just say "we will reassess all speed limits on #UK #roads, selecting maximums of 50 to 60 mph where appropriate" this enables use of existing road signs and limits that drivers are familiar with, isn't wildly different from what local Councils and #NationalHighways / #TrafficScotland / #TransportForWales are doing anyway, gives #gammons a less obvious headline than unusual 55 mph limit and they don't have that long attention spans..

Incidentally I've now been driving 7 years and even in that relatively short time I've seen multiple rural roads across #Suffolk and #Essex change limits from 60 mph to 40-50 mph - all areas with Conservative Councils!

TENBY: Five arrested as police, council and rail bosses launch joint crackdown after station stabbing shocked Pembrokeshire

Four teenagers were stabbed at Tenby station on the evening of Tuesday 7 April during a large-scale disturbance involving a group of youths on the platform. A 16-year-old and a 19-year-old man were arrested at the time on suspicion of Section 18 assault — the more serious category of wounding offence. Both have since been released on bail while enquiries continue.

British Transport Police, who have primacy over the investigation, arrested a further three teenagers on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and violent disorder on Thursday 9 April. All three were also released on bail. BTP Superintendent Jonathon Cooze said the investigation was “progressing at pace” and urged anyone who witnessed the incident, or the events leading up to it, to come forward. Witnesses can contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 916 of 7th April.

Dyfed-Powys Police Superintendent Louise Harries, BCU Commander for Pembrokeshire, described the events at Tenby station as “wholly unacceptable” and issued a clear warning to potential offenders ahead of the summer season. “Dyfed-Powys is home to some of the most picturesque and welcoming locations that our country has to offer, which our residents are lucky to have on their doorsteps, as well as attracting thousands of tourists all year round,” she said.

“As such, we do not want our spring and summer months to be in any way defined by anti-social behaviour or violent disorder taking place, which understandably causes fear and concern,” Superintendent Harries added.

Over the coming weeks and months, police say that members of the public can expect to see a visible police presence in hotspot locations around Tenby. Dyfed-Powys Police say officers will work closely with British Transport Police, Pembrokeshire County Council and Transport for Wales to provide reassurance to locals, business owners and tourists. Where necessary, arrests and prosecutions will follow for any criminal behaviour.

Officers will also be equipped with a range of powers under anti-social behaviour legislation. These include requiring individuals to provide their details under Section 50 of the Police Reform Act, as well as Sections 34 and 35 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act — which allows officers to direct people to leave a specific area for up to 48 hours.

Local councillors have already called for more police on the streets, with anger running high in Tenby over what many describe as a pattern of rising youth disorder in the town. Superintendent Harries acknowledged the support of the local community, saying reports received into the control room and conversations officers had while out on foot had been “extremely helpful” in building a picture of how to respond.

“Anyone with concerns should never feel like they cannot contact us for support, no matter how minor they feel the issue is,” she said. “All reports into the force help with building intelligence and an understanding of where we need to allocate our resources. We want your community to be a pleasant environment to spend time in, so please inform us of any concerns.”

Richard Brown, Assistant Chief Executive of Pembrokeshire County Council, said the incident had been “deeply concerning” and that the council’s thoughts were with everyone affected. He acknowledged that incidents of this nature cause “anxiety for residents, businesses, and visitors” and said the council was working closely with police and partners to support the ongoing investigation and address wider issues linked to anti-social behaviour.

Brown called on parents and carers to be particularly aware of where young people are spending time in the evenings. “This is a shared challenge, and effective prevention relies on early reporting, strong partnership working and timely intervention,” he said.

Transport for Wales has announced additional security teams will be deployed at stations and on board rail services across west Wales this weekend and throughout the summer. The extra presence will focus in particular on late night services and key locations across the network, supported by CCTV at stations and body-worn cameras worn by train crew.

Security Manager Simon Turton said incidents of serious anti-social behaviour were “thankfully uncommon” but that the railway was committed to ensuring customers and colleagues felt safe. “We’ll have additional security at stations and on-board services, with a particular focus on late night services and key locations across our network,” he said.

Tenby is one of Pembrokeshire’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing tens of thousands of visitors during the Easter and summer seasons. The incident — which took place during the Easter holiday period, when the town is at its busiest — prompted widespread shock and anger across the county, with residents and business owners raising serious concerns about its impact on the town’s reputation ahead of the peak summer trade.

The disorder at Tenby station is part of a wider picture of concern about youth anti-social behaviour in Pembrokeshire’s coastal towns as warmer months approach and visitor numbers rise. All four of the teenagers injured in the stabbing sustained non-life-threatening wounds and received medical treatment at the scene and beyond.

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 916 of 7th April. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Four teens stabbed at Tenby railway station as two arrested and line closed
Our original report from the night of the incident.

‘Tenby has been let down’: Councillors demand more police on streets as stabbing sparks fury
The community reaction and the calls for urgent action that followed.

TENBY: “Tenby has been let down” — councillors demand more police on streets as stabbing sparks fury over rising youth disorder

Elected councillors in Tenby have issued an angry call for more visible policing in the town after Tuesday night’s railway station stabbing — with one saying the town has “been let down” and another warning that many residents no longer feel safe in their own community.

Four teenagers aged between 13 and 17, all from the Pembroke area, were stabbed at Tenby railway station on Tuesday evening after serious disorder broke out involving a large group of youths. All four have since been discharged from hospital, with British Transport Police confirming their injuries are not considered life-threatening or life-changing.

A 16-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and both remain in police custody as the investigation continues.

Superintendent Jon Cooze of British Transport Police said the force had launched a thorough investigation and was keeping an open mind as to the background of what had happened. He thanked Dyfed-Powys Police colleagues for their quick actions at the scene and urged anyone who witnessed the incident or the events leading up to it to come forward.

“We understand the concern an incident of this nature will have caused in the community,” he said, “and while we believe it to be an isolated incident, passengers will notice an increased presence of officers in the area who are there to provide reassurance.”

He also asked the public not to share or speculate on footage circulating online while detectives concentrate on their investigation.

But the stabbing, serious as it is, has proved to be the breaking point in what councillors say has been a worsening pattern of youth disorder in the town — one they say police have repeatedly failed to address.

Reports on social media suggest trouble had been building throughout the day, with large numbers of youths gathering on North Beach. Earlier the same evening, Pembrokeshire County Council was forced to close the public toilets near the multi-storey car park after a gang of youths vandalised them.

One resident described the situation as having become “intolerable for weeks.” They said groups of up to 15 youths had been regularly causing havoc in the multi-storey car park, playing rugby in the road, climbing on bus shelters and screaming — and that police had been called several times without result. “There’s never an officer available in our area,” they said. “It’s not good enough.”

Another resident said hundreds of teenagers had been arriving in Tenby by train from across the county during recent days, vandalising toilets, stealing from local shops and abusing and attacking passers-by. “Transport for Wales and the police should be monitoring it,” they said. “With social media, AI and other systems, this behaviour should have been prevented before it escalated.”

Cllr Williams, county councillor for Tenby’s North ward, said the violence itself was not new — only the use of knives. He told the Tenby Observer he had emailed Dyfed-Powys Police about related concerns approximately three weeks ago and had not received a response. Officers are due to visit him at his home on Thursday, when he said he would be making “a very strong argument for a far more visible police presence in Tenby.”

“Tenby has been let down, despite an ever increasing precept being imposed upon us,” he said. “We have a right to feel safe in our community, and I know many that no longer do so.”

He noted that a CCTV monitoring system once operated from Tenby Police Station but that the station now appears to be closed. He said he would also be discussing the town’s needs with the Police and Crime Commissioner.

Cllr Sam Skyrme-Blackhall, county councillor for Tenby’s South ward, described the stabbings as a shock but said the wider problem of anti-social behaviour was well known. He pointed to Dyfed-Powys Police’s summer Operation Lion initiative — which brings additional officers into the town during the peak tourist season — and said he now believes it needs to be extended to other busy periods such as school holidays.

“We know that an increased police presence is an important part of keeping communities safe,” he said. “I will work with all parties to keep Tenby safe and encourage the police and PCC to do all that they can to ensure that this is a one-off incident.”

Tenby Town Council, speaking through Mayor Cllr Dai Morgan, said the behaviour seen this week does not reflect the town’s values or those of the overwhelming majority of its young people. The council called for more visible policing “particularly during busy periods, to provide reassurance to the community and to act as a deterrent to further incidents,” and said it would continue to work with police, Pembrokeshire County Council and partner agencies on longer-term solutions.

Henry Tufnell, MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire, said he was deeply saddened by the events. “My thoughts and prayers are with the friends and families of those involved,” he said. “I know our community will be deeply shocked by these events, but we are all so grateful for the vital services of the emergency first responders on the scene.”

Samuel Kurtz MS, Senedd member for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, called for zero tolerance on knife crime. “This kind of violence has no place in our communities and cannot be accepted under any circumstances,” he said. “Those responsible must face the full force of the law. We all deserve to feel safe where we live.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 916 of 07/04/26. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

TENBY: Four teens stabbed at railway station as two arrested and line closed
Our original report on Tuesday night’s stabbing at Tenby railway station.

LLANELLI: Police crack down on North Dock anti-social behaviour hotspot as spring season begins
Officers move to address disorder at a well-known trouble spot as warmer weather arrives.

SWANSEA: Police impose 48-hour dispersal order on city centre after Easter holiday disorder
Officers respond to disorder in Swansea city centre over the Easter break.

£14bn metro dream for Swansea – but will West Wales finally get its share?

The ambitious vision from Transport for Wales forms part of a £14bn programme backed by the UK and Welsh governments, with leaders claiming it could transform travel, boost business and create thousands of jobs across South West Wales.

Electrification, new stations and metro links

At the heart of the plans is long-awaited electrification of the main line between Cardiff and Swansea — a move expected to cut journey times and increase capacity.

New stations at Landore and Winch Wen are also proposed, alongside a string of potential metro hubs across the city including Pontlliw, Felindre, Morriston, Llandarcy and Cockett.

There are also plans to improve rail links westwards to communities including Ammanford, Pembrey, St Clears, Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock — areas long calling for better connections.

Further down the line, a £1bn light rail expansion could link Swansea to Neath and Tonna, running through the city centre and waterfront in a move designed to bring trams back to the region.

“Generational change” promised

Rob Stewart said the plans could be a turning point for the regional economy.

“We all want to see better rail links into Swansea and across South West Wales,” he said.

“Transport links from London and the rest of UK to our part of Wales are critical to help deliver a strong local economy.”

He added that electrification and wider investment would “create thousands of jobs in construction and secure thousands more in the long term”.

The council is also banking on sweeping bus reforms to tie the network together, with a new franchising model aimed at delivering “one timetable and one ticket” across rail and bus services.

Linking jobs, hospitals and major attractions

Stewart said new stations would play a key role in connecting people to jobs and services.

“Having a network of new stations across Swansea will be critical in terms of providing direct public transport links to hospitals, major employers including the DVLA and the Enterprise Zone in Llansamlet,” he said.

“They will also serve major attractions including the new Skyline development, Penderyn Distillery and the Swansea.com Stadium.”

Political backing – but pressure remains

Ken Skates said the plans marked “exciting times ahead” for transport in the region, while Swansea West MP Torsten Bell said the project could help reverse years of underinvestment.

“Swansea has been let down by years of underinvestment in our rail system,” he said.

“This consultation is an important opportunity to feed into the development of this vital new infrastructure.”

But will it actually happen?

Despite the bold vision, the announcement comes against a backdrop of frustration in South West Wales — with previous promises failing to materialise.

Swansea Bay News has previously reported anger over the lack of progress on schemes like the long-delayed St Clears station, as well as criticism that the region has been “forgotten” in wider UK rail investment.

There have also been renewed calls for major projects like a multi-million pound rail link to Aberystwyth, while passengers continue to demand better reliability despite recent improvements in punctuality.

Campaigners will also be disappointed that there is no mention of a tram route extending towards Swansea University and Mumbles.

The £14bn plan has been hailed as “generational” — but for many across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire, the real test will be whether it finally delivers on promises that have been years in the making.

Transport and rail: more from Swansea Bay News

St Clears station delay sparks anger
Calls grow for action after years of promises with no construction.

£775m rail link calls return
Fresh push for a Carmarthen to Aberystwyth line in major report.

£14bn rail row erupts
Politicians clash over whether Swansea is getting its fair share.

‘Forgotten again’ fury over rail snub
Anger as new stations announced elsewhere — but not in West Wales.

Rail punctuality improves — but concerns remain
Performance rises, but passengers say more must be done.

Out at a meatbag meeting today.

The #transportforwales trains have improved a lot since I last needed to leave the house.

I no longer need to crowd surf to the exit when I reach my stop, which is nice.

They’re also nice and modern, but it is mainly the lack of crowd surfing.

Transport for Wales rail fares to be frozen for a year

The freeze, which comes into effect on St David’s Day (1 March), will apply to all of Transport for Wales‘ regulated and unregulated fares, including season tickets, return tickets, and the new ‘tap-in, tap-out’ pay-as-you-go system.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said the move would provide “certainty to passengers at a time when many are struggling with the cost of living” and make train travel “more attractive and cheaper”.

“More people are choosing to travel by train in Wales, services are growing faster and they are more reliable,” the First Minister said.

“This is as a result of us spending £1.1bn improving the Core Valleys Lines and developing the South Wales Metro. We have also spent £800m in new trains that can carry 80% more passengers.”

The announcement was welcomed by some passengers.

Speaking to BBC News, rail passenger Edward Eggers said: “At least it’s not going up. I’ve got a railcard, as long as it stays at this price, I’m decently happy with it. I would always advocate for it being lower but I think the transport system just needs the money, so I’ll pay what I need to.”

However, the move was criticised by opposition parties.

Plaid Cymru said that to deliver “real, tangible change” in the rail network, the Welsh Government must “begin the process of undoing decades of underfunding of rail funding by Westminster government and the devolution of rail infrastructure – something Labour have failed to demand.”

Reform UK Wales said the Labour government in Cardiff Bay had had a “generation to establish a functioning transport network in Wales” but had “failed to do that and now they’re rightly being punished”.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, added that the fare freeze complements the government’s action to deliver more affordable bus fares and the young person’s fare cap.

The freeze in Wales follows a similar announcement by the UK government for rail fares in England.

Wales’ bus overhaul becomes law as Swansea region first in line for 2027 shake‑up

Wales’ new Bus Services Act has now received Royal Assent, giving ministers sweeping powers to take back control of local bus networks after years of cuts, collapsing operators and shrinking timetables. The Welsh Government says the change marks the start of a complete rebuild of how buses operate across the country — and Southwest Wales will be the first to feel it.

The law was formally sealed in Cardiff by First Minister Eluned Morgan, who said the move sends a clear signal that the days of unreliable, patchwork bus services are numbered.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said:

“This is a historic day for public transport in Wales – it sends out a clear message that we are committed to improving the bus system and delivering better, more reliable services for the people of Wales.”

Swansea region becomes the testing ground

The first rollout in 2027 will cover Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire — an area that has seen repeated route cuts, operator collapses and emergency funding packages just to keep buses on the road.

Under the new system, the public sector will take charge of designing the entire network. Instead of operators deciding which routes they want to run, Transport for Wales will set the timetables, fares and connections, and companies will bid for contracts to operate them.

It’s a complete reversal of the deregulated model that has shaped Welsh buses since the 1980s — and one the Welsh Government argues is essential to stop communities being “cut off”.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said:

“Today marks a major milestone for bus services in Wales. It’s the beginning of a new era… These changes won’t be seen overnight, it’s going to take time, but we are working closely with the industry and local authorities to plan and deliver bus services to meet the needs of passengers today and for generations to come.”

What franchising actually means for passengers

For decades, bus companies have been free to pick and choose the routes they run. If a service wasn’t profitable, it disappeared — leaving councils scrambling to plug the gaps with dwindling budgets.

Franchising flips that on its head.

Instead of operators calling the shots, Transport for Wales will design a single, joined‑up network, deciding where buses go, how often they run and how they connect with trains. Operators will then compete for contracts to run those routes — similar to the system used in London.

The Welsh Government says this will mean clearer timetables, simpler routes and a network that actually works together, rather than a patchwork of competing companies.

For passengers, the promise is straightforward: more reliable buses, better connections and a system designed around public need, not commercial priorities.

Why the change was needed

The bus network in Wales has been in crisis for years. Operators have folded, routes have vanished and councils have repeatedly warned that entire communities risk losing their only public transport link.

Swansea Bay News has reported extensively on the turmoil — from emergency funding packages to operators collapsing and councils warning that cuts could leave people stranded.

The Welsh Government says the new law is the only way to rebuild a stable, reliable network that doesn’t fall apart every time a company pulls out or a subsidy ends.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said:

“We will use local knowledge to design and plan services that put the voice of the passenger at the heart of their local bus network.”

What happens next

Transport for Wales will now work with councils, unions, operators and the public to design the new franchised network for Southwest Wales ahead of the 2027 launch.

Early proposals published last year showed plans for simpler routes, better interchange points and more direct links between key towns, hospitals and employment sites.

The Welsh Government insists the direction of travel is now set — and that the Swansea region will lead the way in proving whether franchising can finally fix Wales’ broken bus system.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Major changes proposed to bus network ahead of 2027 reforms
Early plans revealed how franchising could reshape routes across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire.

Tower Transit acquires South Wales Transport ahead of Welsh bus franchising
A major operator shake‑up as the industry prepares for the new franchised model.

Swansea MS meets First Bus to discuss future of city’s transport network
Politicians and operators clash over reliability, funding and the future of local routes.

Council leader speaks out on bus funding changes as services cut and operators fold
Councils warn communities risk being left isolated without urgent reform.

Bus services in Wales get last‑minute reprieve as minister announces new £46m fund
Emergency cash injected to stop routes disappearing before franchising arrives.

Leaked letter shows council leader concerned Welsh Government bus funding cuts will cut off communities
Internal warnings reveal the scale of the crisis facing Wales’ bus network.

£48m gap funding support package for Welsh bus industry
Operators given temporary support as the sector struggles to stay afloat.

Councillors back bold plan to explore Swansea Valley tram‑train link
Ambitious transport ideas emerge as Wales looks to rebuild its public transport future.

Rail chaos hits Swansea as 12‑day shutdown begins — passengers warned to expect long delays

The closure — running from Monday 26 January to Friday 6 February, with an additional full shutdown on Sunday 8 February — has been confirmed by Network Rail, which says engineers will be working “around the clock” on the Landore Viaduct and the surrounding track.

Network Rail says the work involves renewing rails, sleepers, switches, crossings and points, as well as refurbishing the viaduct structure that carries trains over the River Tawe. The organisation describes the upgrades as “vital” to keeping services safe and reliable.

Nick Millington, Network Rail’s Wales & Borders Route Director, said the closure was unavoidable:

“We’re carrying out vital track renewal work and refurbishing Landore Viaduct to improve the reliability of the railway for passenger and freight services. To complete this work safely, we need to close the railway between Port Talbot Parkway and Swansea. We’re sorry for the disruption this will cause.”

The history of Landore Viaduct

Landore Viaduct first opened in 1850 as part of the South Wales Railway engineered by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The original structure was built largely from timber and carried trains across the River Tawe into Swansea.

The viaduct was rebuilt in the late 19th century as rail traffic increased, replacing the timber superstructure with stronger materials. Further modernisation took place in the 1970s, leaving only a handful of Brunel’s original masonry piers still visible today.

For more than 170 years, the viaduct has remained a key route for passenger and freight services travelling in and out of Swansea, linking the city to the wider South Wales Main Line.

The shutdown means no trains at all between Port Talbot Parkway and Swansea for most of the next 12 days. Both Transport for Wales and Great Western Railway say their services will be heavily affected, with replacement buses running throughout the closure.

TfW says passengers should expect longer journeys and changes to connections, with some early‑morning and late‑evening services diverted or curtailed. Services to West Wales will continue to run, but many will start or finish at different stations than usual.

Colin Lea, TfW’s Planning and Performance Director, said:

“These essential works are an important investment in making the railway more reliable for years to come. We know disruption is frustrating and we’re grateful to customers for bearing with us.”

GWR has confirmed that its London Paddington services will now start and finish at Port Talbot instead of Swansea for most of the closure period. Some trains will not run at all on Friday 6 February because rolling stock will be out of position.

Passengers travelling through Gowerton face additional disruption because a low bridge prevents full‑size coaches from serving the station. Smaller buses are being used, meaning passengers heading beyond Swansea will need to change vehicles at the station before continuing their journey.

The disruption will intensify again this coming weekend, with buses replacing trains between Cardiff, Bridgend and Swansea on Saturday 31 January and Sunday 1 February, and further changes on Sunday 8 February.

Despite the upheaval, Swansea Station itself remains open, with ticketing, toilets and refreshments available as normal.

With the closure now underway, thousands of commuters are bracing for delays, packed buses and longer journeys — and hoping the promised improvements will justify the disruption.

Two weeks of rail chaos ahead as major upgrades hit Swansea services

The work — a mix of structural repairs and track renewals — will run from Monday 26 January to Thursday 5 February, with an extra day of disruption on Sunday 8 February. Services will be diverted, reduced or replaced by buses throughout.

Network Rail says the timing has been chosen to avoid clashing with the England v Wales Six Nations match at Twickenham on Saturday 7 February.

Replacement buses, diverted trains and long detours

Across the two‑week period, passengers face a patchwork of amended services:

From 26–30 January, buses will replace trains between Port Talbot Parkway and Swansea or Llanelli, while trains continue to run between London Paddington and Port Talbot, and between Llanelli and Carmarthen. Transport for Wales will run a limited service via an alternative route that won’t stop at Neath or Swansea.

Over the 31 January–1 February weekend, buses will operate between Cardiff Central or Bridgend and Swansea, with trains still running between Paddington and Cardiff, and between Swansea and Carmarthen.

From 2–5 February, the pattern repeats: buses between Port Talbot and Swansea, diverted TfW services avoiding Neath and Swansea, and reduced long‑distance services.

On Sunday 8 February, buses will again replace trains between Cardiff, Bridgend, Port Talbot and Swansea, depending on the route.

Rail bosses apologise — and warn journeys will take longer

GWR’s Station Manager for South Wales, Kay Davies, said the work was essential but acknowledged the impact on passengers.

“We apologise for the impact this work will have on customers, but this is a really important investment in the long‑term reliability of our railway,” she said.

Davies warned that timetables have been amended, including a reduced service between Cardiff Central and London Paddington, and urged passengers to allow extra time as “bus journeys will take a little longer than the train.”

Transport for Wales Planning & Performance Director, Colin Lea, said the operator was working with Network Rail and GWR to “keep passengers moving” during the upgrades.

He said some services would be diverted with longer journey times, adding: “We’d encourage passengers to plan ahead, check before they travel, and allow extra time for their journeys.”

Network Rail: ‘There’s never a good time to close the railway’

Network Rail Wales and Borders Route Director, Nick Millington, said the work was part of efforts to improve punctuality.

“We recognise there is never a good time to close the railway, but we have planned the renewals to minimise disruption as much as possible,” he said.

Millington thanked passengers for their patience and urged them to check their journeys before travelling.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Councillors back bold plan to explore Swansea Valley tram‑train link
A major proposal to reconnect communities with a modern tram‑train route.

Llanelli station set for multi‑million transport hub after councillors approve plans
A major upgrade that will reshape one of the region’s key rail gateways.

£6.3m accessibility upgrade officially opened at Llanelli station
New lifts and step‑free access unveiled as part of a major improvement scheme.

Union Flag rail designs unveiled – South West Wales impact comes later
UK Government reveals new branding for trains, but rollout in Wales remains unclear.

New figures reveal Wales set to lose £6bn in rail funding row
Fresh analysis reignites debate over how rail investment is allocated across the UK.

‘Plan ahead’ warning for Christmas train travellers as rail repair work to cause closures and delays

No trains on Christmas Day and Boxing Day

There will be no train services or rail replacement buses running on 25 and 26 December. Services will also finish earlier than usual on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, and start later on 27 December.

West Wales hit by engineering works

In Pembrokeshire, the line between Whitland, Haverfordwest and Milford Haven will be closed from 29 December through New Year’s Day. Families heading home after Christmas will need to find alternative routes.

Disruption for Bridgend and Valleys passengers

In Bridgend County, trains to Maesteg will be reduced to a shuttle service between Bridgend and Maesteg. Meanwhile, engineering west of Cardiff Central between 24 and 31 December means passengers from Swansea and Neath Port Talbot could face retimed trains, diversions via Ninian Park and platform changes at Cardiff Central.

January closure in Mountain Ash

The disruption continues into the New Year. From 4 to 24 January, the Aberdare line to Pontypridd will be closed while safety‑critical repairs are carried out on an embankment at Mountain Ash.

Bus services also affected

Fflecsi and TrawsCymru buses will finish earlier on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, with no services at all on Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year’s Day.

A small festive boost

TrawsCymru’s £1 evening fare after 5pm runs throughout December, offering cheap travel for festive nights out across South West Wales.

“Planning ahead has never been more important”

Marie Daly, Chief Operating Officer at Transport for Wales, said:

“With essential engineering work taking place, planning ahead has never been more important. Our dedicated teams will be working throughout the festive season to keep services running across the Wales & Borders network and get passengers safely to their destinations.”

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Festive bin collection changes across South West Wales
Councils confirm revised waste and recycling dates for Swansea, Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot and Pembrokeshire.

Free buses return to Swansea for Christmas
Shoppers and families benefit from free bus travel on selected dates before Christmas and New Year.

Extra train service on Heart of Wales line
A fifth daily train now connects Swansea and Shrewsbury, supporting festive travel and rural communities.

König Charles eröffnet Metro Depot in Südwales

#Eröffnung #Großbritannien #KönigCharles #Metro #MetroDepot #SouthWales #Straßenbahn #TransportforWales

https://bahnblogstelle.com/241970/koenig-charles-eroeffnet-metro-depot-in-suedwales/

Punctuality continues to improve for Transport for Wales services http://dlvr.it/TNFHW8 #Network #RailNews #TransportforWales #Wales

Transport for Wales revolutionises training with virtual reality technology http://dlvr.it/TMmwt3 #Class197 #Network #RailNews #TransportforWales

New Welsh Ukrainian Fusion Opens at Caerphilly Station http://dlvr.it/TMbQtV #Caerphilly #Network #RailNews #TransportforWales

Train travel in Wales down to just £1 with new promotion http://dlvr.it/TMZKh6 #Abergavenny #Network #RailNews #TransportforWales

Gwasanaeth dosbarth cyntaf #TrafnidiaethCymru yn ardderchog

Superb breakfast on #TransportForWales 1st class service #Caerdydd to #Manchester

#diningcar #train #railway @diningcar

U OK HUN?

#TrafnidiaethCymru #TransportForWales #trains #railway #glitch #trênau #rheilffordd #announcement #Caerdydd #Cymru #Cardiff #Wales

Thousands Choose Sustainable Travel to Attend Oasis Concert in Cardiff http://dlvr.it/TLpZ9n #Cardiff #Network #RailNews #TransportforWales

Railway shelters refurbished or replaced as part of £2 million project http://dlvr.it/TLMfmY #CoreValley #Network #RailNews #TransportforWales

Government boosts rail investment in Wales http://dlvr.it/TLK32l #Infrastructure #LevelCrossing #RailNews #TransportforWales

I was sitting on the platform at Shrewsbury Station this afternoon, wondering whether or not this train stopped at Ludlow...
No destinations were displayed, but a lot of other stuff...

FW revision?
Display resolution?
IP Address?
MAC Address?

#Train #TrainTravel #Railways #Destinations #Bug #Crash #TransportForWales #Shrewsbury #Shropshire

Someone told me about a collab between #TransportForWales and #Cadw, the #Welsh #heritage body.

You get 2-for-1 entry at their sites if you travel there via #train, and judging by the little guide I saw, it's ENTIRELY possible. (So pipe down, car people.)

This is on offer until 30 September 2025, so hop on a train with a friend or partner or child and visit somewhere historic!

You can read more here if you fancy it (I do!): https://tfw.wales/ways-to-travel/rail/savings-and-offers/cadw

#travel #Wales #PublicTransport

Transport for Wales Names New Train Ahead of Youth Festival http://dlvr.it/TKdpDF #Network #PortTalbot #RailNews #TransportforWales

Subscription loyalty app to proivde discounts on Welsh train travel http://dlvr.it/TKLltf #Network #RailNews #TransportforWales #RailAdvent

TfW announce New Chief Operating Officer http://dlvr.it/TJfyr1 #Network #RailNews #TransportforWales #RailAdvent

New Men’s Shed for South Wales railway station http://dlvr.it/THgS50 #MilfordHaven #Network #RailNews #TransportforWales

While Mrs. Jomo was off doing her thing, I decided to head out on a quick adventure. I made my way to Llandudno Station to catch a train to Betws-y-Coed. No particular reason—just the simple pleasure of riding the train, exploring the railway museum, and enjoying a coffee at one of the local spots. Thankfully, the rain held off, leaving me with some stunning scenic views to enjoy along the way.

#transportforwales #daytrip #takethetrain #northwales

Wales petition: Safeguard The Cambrian Coast Line

https://www.dwyformeirionnydd.wales/safeguard_the_cambrian_coast_line

"Instead of cutting further services, Transport for Wales and Welsh government should be actively investing in local transport links across north west Wales, ensuring local people and visitors are afforded robust, reliable, and accessible train services."

#wales #cymru #UK #petition #PublicTransport #activism #ArmchairActivism #TfW #TransportForWales

Transport for Wales launches high-speed internet subsidiary http://dlvr.it/TGSFxS #Network #RailNews #SouthWalesMetro #TransportforWales

Mae fy nhocyn 'go-to' ar gyfer teithio rhwng y de a'r gogledd, Pas Archwilio Cymru, bellach ar gael ar ap #TrafnidiaethCymru #TransportForWales - hwre!

Ond mae pris oedolyn wedi neidio o £109 i £149 a does dim modd ei ddefnyddio ar wasanaethau bws lleol mwyach - bŵ!
https://trc.cymru/ffyrdd-o-deithio/rheilffordd/mathau-o-docynnau/rover-a-ranger/archwilio-cymru

❌🚆 Rail services suspended on #TransportForWales between #LLandudnoJunction and #BlaenauFfestiniog due to flooding. (#NorthWalesLive)

#NorthWalesLive 💬:

Trains have been cancelled in #NorthWales due to bad weather from #StormIsha. According to the Inrix traffic monitoring service - buses will run instead of trains on #TransportForWales, between #Llandudno and #BlaenauFfestiniog, and between Shrewsbury and Swansea, as a result.

🚆 Heavy rainfall has caused flooding on the #Wrexham to #Bidston railway line. This has led to disruption, including the cancellation of some train services. The affected railway line, which links #Flintshire with Wrexham and the Wirral, is expected to face disruptions until 11:00am, #TransportForWales has said.

https://www.wrexham.com/news/wrexham-to-bidston-rail-line-blocked-by-flooding-242940.html

🚆 #TransportForWales have suspended rail services between North #Llanrwst and #BlaenauFfestiniog due to flooding. #NorthWales (#NorthWalesLive)

Transport for Wales und Stadler feiern Einführung neuer Züge

#TransportforWales #Stadler #Großbritannien #Züge #Flirt #Citylink

https://bahnblogstelle.com/201800/transport-for-wales-und-stadler-feiern-einfuehrung-neuer-zuege/

Train happy adding to Reading from Newport

An on time and efficient journey from Abergavenny

#train #transportforwales #ontime

Finished my second Slow Ways route of the day - Penybont i Sarn. All road walking and very urban. I naively believed the TFW train app that my train was running from Sarn now I’m stranded six miles walk from home 😔. #SlowWays #Sarn #Bridgend #Penybont #TransportForWales #Stranded #LongWalk