23 Feb 2022

Transport for Wales (TfW) is continuing to move forward with the building of the South Wales Metro with work taking place in the spring.

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

As part of this, TfW is building a brand new depot and control centre at Taff’s Well, and will be undertaking essential work at the station and surrounding area throughout the spring.

Between 1 and 2 March, no trains will be running between Pontypridd and Radyr while work takes place on the line, including cutting back vegetation, installing track work for the new depot, and carrying out work on the station to prepare for the construction of the new accessible footbridge. Replacement buses will be in operation between Pontypridd and Radyr.

Further work will take place later in the spring which will require the full closure of Ffordd Bleddyn, the road outside the station. While the road has been closed to vehicles since August 2021, it is now scheduled to close to pedestrians and cyclists from 11 April, pending planning approval from Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council.

This will include a small section of the Taff Trail being out of use, with diversions in place for the closure lasting until the autumn.

To ensure that the planned diversion routes are suitable for pedestrians and cyclists, TfW will be undertaking improvement work along Forest Road and Cemetery Road to prepare for this, including the introduction of a cycle lane and traffic calming measures in order to safeguard vulnerable users.

Karl Gilmore, Rail Infrastructure Director at TfW said:

“These essential works will mean we’re another forward step in delivering the South Wales Metro for the people of Wales.

“The key infrastructure works will allow us to prepare it for the introduction of brand-new tram-trains in the coming years. 

“I’d like to thank our lineside neighbours and passengers in advance for their understanding and continued support whilst we carry out these works.”

Members of the public have the opportunity to formally raise any concerns that they may have about the improvement work along Forest Road and Cemetery Road, by contacting the Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council’s traffic management team before 9 March 2022. This can be done via email at trafficservices@rctcbc.gov.uk or by post to the Traffic Services Manager at Traffic Management, Sardis House, Sardis Road, Pontypridd, CF37 1DU.