New UK–Welsh Rail Deal Puts Wales at the Centre of Future Services

A new agreement between the UK and Welsh governments is set to give Wales a stronger voice in how its railways are run, with a focus on improving reliability, connectivity, and passenger experience across Wales and the English border regions.

Published on 25 March 2026, the memorandum of understanding (MoU) outlines how both governments will work together under the future Great British Railways (GBR) structure. The partnership will see GBR and Transport for Wales (TfW) collaborate more closely to plan and deliver rail services.

The deal is designed to simplify how the railway operates, ensuring decisions are made more efficiently and with greater input from Welsh communities. This is expected to lead to more reliable timetables, better connections, and improved day-to-day performance for passengers.

A key feature of the agreement is a commitment to providing bilingual information in both English and Welsh, ensuring accessibility for all users of the network.

The agreement also supports the Welsh Government’s long-term rail vision, estimated at £14 billion, aimed at delivering more frequent and higher-quality services across the country.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the reforms will give the Welsh Government a more influential role in shaping services for local communities, particularly improving cross-border travel. She emphasised that aligning planning and operations between both governments will help deliver a better overall passenger experience.

The changes form part of the wider rollout of Great British Railways, expected to be established in 2027. GBR will bring track and train operations under a single organisation, replacing the current fragmented system and prioritising passengers, value for money, and long-term investment.

Under the new arrangements, passengers and communities can expect:

• Greater local input into rail decisions

• More coordinated planning of services and infrastructure

• Improved reliability and connectivity

• Clearer bilingual passenger information

• Better integration with buses and active travel options

  
  

Welsh Transport Secretary Ken Skates said the agreement reflects a strong partnership between both governments and will support the delivery of improved services for passengers across Wales.

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens added that the deal ensures local needs are placed at the heart of rail transformation, alongside significant investment commitments. This includes funding for new stations, upgrades to existing lines, and safety improvements such as level crossing upgrades.

The agreement builds on wider government investment of at least £445 million in Welsh rail infrastructure, with plans to construct new stations and modernise key routes.

Overall, the partnership marks a major step towards a more integrated and passenger-focused railway, supporting economic growth and an estimated 12,000 jobs across Wales.