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New Wales and Borders rail services
28 June 2018
KeolisAmey will become the new operator and developer for the Wales and Borders rail service and South Wales Metro later this year.
The company is a joint venture between Keolis, an international public transport operator, and Amey, an infrastructure asset management specialist. KeolisAmey will take over the running of train services from Arriva Trains Wales on 14 October 2018 and will remain the operator until 2033.
Key improvements promised under the new franchise are increased capacity, better reliability and joined-up ticketing and information. Crucially, the operator also wants to replace trains and improve stations. We included these aspirations in our work with the Welsh Government, Transport for Wales and our discussions with all bidders.
KeolisAmey promises significantly more trains on weekdays and Sundays, 95 per cent of journeys to be on new trains from 2023, and a new Cardiff Metro light rail service.
It plans to extend free travel for under-11s and under-16s during the off peak. A half-price fare will be introduced for 16-18 year olds. Wi-Fi will be improved and smart ticketing introduced.
Read more here.
Passengers will welcome this investment in their future services – however they will want clear communication on what to expect and when these will be delivered. We are continuing to work with KeolisAmey, Transport for Wales and Welsh Government to see these ambitious plans brought to fruition and to ensure the passenger voice is built strongly into the new service.