Siemens Mobility Chosen to Deliver Signalling for Cardiff Crossrail Project

Siemens Mobility has been awarded a key contract by Transport for Wales (TfW) to provide the signalling infrastructure for Cardiff Crossrail, a major project that will create Wales’ first tram-train network and strengthen connections across the capital.

The scheme will establish a direct link between Cardiff Central and Cardiff Bay stations, addressing a long-standing gap in the city’s transport network and supporting wider ambitions to expand the South Wales Metro.

Under the contract, Siemens Mobility will be responsible for the design, installation, integration and commissioning of two separate signalling systems. The first will manage tram-train movements along sections of the route that operate within the city’s streets, while the second will oversee operations on the Cardiff Bay main line using a line-of-sight approach. Together, the systems are intended to provide safe, efficient and reliable services for passengers travelling across the region.

The award represents a continuation of Siemens Mobility’s involvement in the transformation of rail infrastructure in South Wales. The company previously played a significant role in the Core Valley Lines Transformation programme, delivering major signalling upgrades that modernised infrastructure and enabled service frequencies on parts of the network to increase from two trains per hour to four.

Once completed, Cardiff Crossrail is expected to connect with the existing Core Valley Lines network, creating a more integrated transport system and extending the reach of the South Wales Metro into additional communities.

Matt Kent, Director of Operations and Manufacturing for Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility UK and Ireland, said the project would have a lasting impact on mobility and economic opportunity across the region.

He described Cardiff Crossrail as a transformative investment that would improve access to employment, support regeneration and provide enhanced transport links for communities that have historically experienced limited connectivity. He added that Siemens Mobility was proud to continue its contribution to the development of South Wales’ rail network by delivering the technology required to support the new service.

Transport for Wales also welcomed the appointment, highlighting the role the project will play in improving sustainable transport options across Cardiff.

Dan Tipper, Chief Infrastructure Officer at Transport for Wales, said the Crossrail scheme represents an important milestone in the continued development of the South Wales Metro. He noted that the project would make it easier for residents and visitors to travel across the city while improving access to employment, education and other opportunities.

Tipper also pointed to Siemens Mobility’s previous involvement in the Core Valley Lines programme as a strong foundation for the partnership, expressing confidence that the company’s experience would help deliver a greener, more dependable and better-connected transport network for Cardiff and the wider region.

The Cardiff Crossrail project is expected to play a central role in the long-term expansion of public transport in South Wales, creating new connections between key destinations while supporting efforts to encourage greater use of sustainable travel.