One part of Cardiff is getting a new train station. Transport for Wales has announced plans to build a new two-platform railway station in Butetown - and it also wants to redevelop Cardiff Bay station.
Officials say the new station will be built in the north of Butetown, as part of the "biggest upgrade to public transport in the area for a generation".
The existing Cardiff Bay station will also get a second platform. This project has been part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and "preparation work" for the station will start in the Autumn.
Transport For Wales vows that installing the new track will allow faster and more frequent services using brand new tram-trains. A new timetable is set to be in place from spring 2024.
James Price, Transport for Wales Chief Executive, said: “The Bay Line transformation project is an important part of the South Wales Metro and we’re delighted to be able to start work on the brand-new station in Butetown before the end of the year. From 2024 we’ll be providing a smoother, greener, modern public transport service which will open up a range of opportunities for people living in Butetown and the wider Cardiff Bay area.
“We’re keen to work collaboratively with local residents through workshops and drop-in sessions and we’re proud to sponsor this year’s Butetown Carnival, where people will be able to get more information and ask questions about the Bay Line transformation.”
Previous initial plans for improvements to the Bay Line included a Metro station at Loudoun Square and a short extension to The Flourish, which were revised at the end of 2020. A review in early 2021 concluded that having a train station positioned further north of Loudoun Square would provide better access for the wider Butetown community, while keeping the Cardiff Bay station would provide better access to local amenities.
Bosses say Cardiff Bay residents living close to the railway line have been contacted with details of the work, which will begin in Autumn with the building of a construction compound on Lloyd George Avenue. Transport For Wales also added that it will be installing a "construction compound" on the trackside of Lloyd George Avenue to help manage its work, store materials and provide facilities for workers.
Construction work for the new Butetown railway station will begin from December this year, with work taking place to upgrade Cardiff Bay station during this time. Cardiff Bay station will remain open for passengers while the work is taking place.
READ NEXT:
- Telegraph writer told 'laughing stock' Drakeford is better than 'an Eton-educated plank'
- The Welsh village on the doorstep of major cities that's almost inaccessible without a car
- Global heating: The terrifying fate of the planet and everyone who lives on it that is now 'irreversible'
- The massive amount of money about to be spent in Wales to try and tackle flooding caused by climate change
- Covid inquiry chair details how her detailed investigation into the pandemic will work
