A TRAIN operator in Wales is set to increase train services locally around South Wales, with the new metro route set to extend to Caerphilly.

From Sunday, June 2, 2024, passengers will be able to catch trains later into the night as 'delivery of the South Wales Metro' moves closer.

Colin Lea, planning and performance director at Transport for Wales, said: “This change will deliver a host of benefits to customers across our Core Valley Routes. 

South Wales Argus: Transport for Wales changes to Rhymney line rail servicesTransport for Wales changes to Rhymney line rail services (Image: Transport for Wales)

“We’re making the change now so people can get some of those benefits early before we start introducing electric trains on these routes with an even more frequent service and faster journey times. 

“The key message is to check before you travel if you use our valley line services.” 

Train services will increase going to and from Cardiff, Pontypridd, Caerphilly, Aberdare, Bargoed, Barry and Barry Island.

South Wales Argus: Train services will change in a few weeks in certain parts of South WalesTrain services will change in a few weeks in certain parts of South Wales (Image: Newsquest)

Hefin David, MS for Caerphilly, said: “I am delighted to hear this news.

"Trains are something I have been working on since I was first elected in 2016 and it is brilliant to see the improvement and progress being made by Transport for Wales, with support from the Welsh Government.

"Train services are something I can categorically say have vastly improved and services will only continue to further improve over time, as we see the completion of the South Wales Metro system by 2025. I will continue to work with TfW on this."

The cabinet secretary for north Wales and transport, Ken Skates, said: “This is an important step on the journey to deliver the South Wales Metro.  

“The new timetable will mean more frequent journeys for passengers – improving connectivity, connecting people and creating opportunity.” 

The changes include:

  • Increase from 6 to 8 trains per hour between Cardiff and Pontypridd, with all 8 calling at Treforrest Estate 

  • Increase from 4 to 6 trains per hour between Caerphilly and Cardiff 

  • Increase from 1 to 2 trains per hour between Rhymney and Cardiff 

  • More frequent evening services between Cardiff and Treherbert, Aberdare and Merthyr 

  • A Sunday service on the Cardiff City line for the first time 

  • A new service from Pontypridd through to Cardiff Bay, without the need to change at Queen Street 

Passengers are told to check the timetables for these lines before travelling.