Transport for Wales (TfW) is entering the final phase of preparations ahead of the introduction of its first brand new tram-trains, with Pontypridd to Cardiff Bay services set to be the first to benefit later this summer.
Driver and train manager training is now well advanced, with test runs taking place on an almost daily basis as TfW moves closer to passenger service. The new fleet marks a major milestone in the delivery of the South Wales Metro, one of the most ambitious rail transformation programmes in the UK.
Alongside rolling stock readiness, TfW continues to invest in station facilities across the Valleys network. Work is under way to install nine new toilet facilities and refurbish a further five across the Treherbert, Aberdare and Merthyr lines, ensuring customers have improved access to amenities ahead of the wider tram-train rollout.
The South Wales Metro is designed to significantly enhance connectivity between Cardiff and the Valleys through faster journey times, increased capacity and higher service frequencies. TfW’s fully electric tram-trains are central to delivering this vision, enabling a turn-up-and-go style service more commonly associated with urban metro systems.
Once fully implemented, the improved performance of the new trains, combined with extensive infrastructure upgrades, will reduce journey times to around 50 minutes between Cardiff and Treherbert, Aberdare and Merthyr. Services will operate every 15 minutes, with timetable improvements introduced gradually in phases.
The tram-trains also provide long-term flexibility for network expansion. Designed to operate on both heavy rail and future light-rail infrastructure, they will support the planned Cardiff Crossrail project, opening up new routes and connecting more communities to the rail network.
Passenger experience has been a key design focus. The tram-trains feature three open and spacious carriages, level boarding between train and platform, and improved provision for wheelchairs and bicycles. The layout is intended to support short, frequent journeys and easy access throughout the Metro network.
The first of 36 new tram-trains will enter service on the Pontypridd to Cardiff Bay route, replacing the ageing Class 150 diesel units currently operating the line.
Dan Tipper, Chief Infrastructure Officer at TfW, said:
“Our teams are working extremely hard as we move into the final stages ahead of introducing our first tram trains into service."
"With driver and train manager training nearing completion and testing taking place most days, we’re making strong progress towards launching these services.
“The tram trains are central to delivering the faster, more frequent journeys promised by the South Wales Metro and, alongside pay as you go, will support a true turn up and go service for communities across the Valleys.”
Image credit: Transport for Wales
