Context
The question follows a series of reviews highlighting the need for investment in south Wales main line connectivity, including the UK's connectivity review, Burns commission, and western gateway rail review.
Question
What steps he is taking to improve cross-border transport links between south-east Wales and south-west England. The UK's connectivity review, the Burns commission and the western gateway rail review highlight the need for investment on the south Wales main line. Will the Government commit to fund the relief lines upgrade?
Answer from Mark Harper
The Department for Transport is engaging with stakeholders and will publish its response to Lord Hendy's Union connectivity review. A £2.7 million investment was announced in February 2023 to develop new stations and services on the south Wales main line, and through services between Cardiff and Penzance have already been introduced. The specific scheme for the south Wales relief lines upgrade is now being progressed to a full business case.
Not addressed: Commitment to funding the south Wales relief lines upgrade was not explicitly given, only that it is in progress towards a full business case.
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