30 Oct 2023

Transport for Wales is another step closer to delivering the South Wales Metro and has now electrified the railway line from Aberdare to Pontypridd and Merthyr Tydfil to Abercynon.

Over 60,000 meters of Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) has now been energised across the whole South Wales Metro rail network.

The South Wales Metro will provide more rail services and make it easier for people to travel in the region.  Brand-new Citylink Class 398 tram-trains are already in test on Metro routes and the £100 million Metro Depot at Taff’s Well is near completion. 

Karl Gilmore Rail Infrastructure Director at TfW said:

“This is yet another key milestone in the transformation work of our core valley lines as we continue to progress in delivering the South Wales Metro

It’s really exciting to see more railway lines electrified in South Wales and through delivering the  Metro we’ll be providing people with a more sustainable option of travel.

Taff’s Well depot is the home of our new tram trains and it’s fantastic to see these light rail vehicles out on test which will soon be in passenger service”

The transformation of the Core Valley Lines for the Metro has been part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund through Welsh Government, and will enable faster, more frequent services between Cardiff and the heads of the valleys.  

As TfW continue to electrify more of the railway in South Wales, they’re urging the public to be aware of the safety risks.  Trespassing on the railway is illegal, and doing so today carries a higher risk of serious burns and ultimately death.

If you see any suspicious behaviour on the tracks; contact the British Transport Police:

- Call 0800 40 50 40
- Text 61016
- In an emergency call 999
- Or you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.