We may still be waiting for the delayed entry into service of the tram-trains in South Wales, but a recent visit by politicians to their purpose built depot at Taffs Well has confirmed that they are now in the final phase of testing, and should be introduced into service on some of the Core Valleys Lines this spring.
The Stadler built class 398 tram-trains, 36 of which have been built, are from the same family as the Citylink vehicles which are already in operation between Sheffield and Rotherham, and are part of the Welsh Government’s £800 million investment in brand new trains for the Wales and Borders region.
The vehicles will be used on services on the Merthyr, Aberdare and Treherbert lines initially. Longer-term they will go onto the streets to link Cardiff Central and Cardiff Bay, but that is still to be constructed with 2028 the date for services to start according to the plan.
Welsh First Minister, Eluned Morgan, said during a visit to the depot at Taffs Well: “Improving transport across Wales is one of my top priorities – investing in high quality transport, which is more reliable, more convenient and more enjoyable to use. I am delighted that passengers are now experiencing the significant benefits of our investment in the South Wales Metro with improved services, brand-new trains and better facilities both on and off the track. And with the arrival of the new tram-trains in the spring it’s an exciting time for transport in Wales.”