House of Commons · Westminster Hall
15 November 2022 · 3 other contributors · 5,685 words
Opened by Robin Millar Con Aberconwy
Responding minister: Huw Merriman
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Robin Millar raised concerns about north wales main line in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
Investment in the North Wales main line should be a priority to secure levelling up, connecting England to Wales and improving cross-border infrastructure. This includes addressing the disparity in funding for rail projects across Wales and ensuring that investments maximise returns on HS2's benefits in north Wales.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The disparity in investment in rail infrastructure over the last two decades between north Wales and other parts of the UK is clear. North Wales has seen fewer investments compared to south Wales, which benefits from significant funding for projects such as the South Wales Metro. The closure of the Menai suspension bridge and the withdrawal of through-train services highlight how north Wales communities are suffering from underfunding.
Stressed the strategic importance of north Wales transport infrastructure to the UK, highlighting the need for step-free access at Ruabon station in his constituency. Mentioned a Department for Transport call for nominations that included Ruabon station in September 2023 for possible inclusion in the next round of the Access for All programme. Emphasised the significance of Sir Peter Hendy's Union connectivity review, which recommended improvements to the north Wales coast main line for faster journey times and greater capacity. Cited HS2 as relying on investments in links from Crewe to north Wales, with a potential economic output of £35 billion per annum for advanced manufacturing clusters across the region. Highlighted the benefits of electrification for decarbonisation.
Welcomes the new Rail Minister and praises the Welsh Government's investment in rail, urging the Chancellor to commit to modernising stations and boosting growth. Criticises the UK government for neglecting the north Wales main line despite its strategic importance, highlighting the need for electrification and questioning the pace of progress. Expresses concern over potential cuts to HS2 services from north Wales to Crewe, demanding clarification on this issue. Raises significant concerns about Avanti's performance, calling for an end to their franchise if they continue to fail passengers.
I am determined to bring good-quality jobs to Ynys Môn and have been successful in bringing over £200 million of investment. However, the rail link to Holyhead is vital for attracting more business due to closures of key transport links like Mona airport and bridges. I need reliable train services from London as mentioned by Sir Peter Hendy's Union connectivity review. Invites the Minister to Holyhead to meet train drivers and understand how working practices impact them daily.
Government Response
Huw MerrimanDiscussed Welsh investment, including £2 billion spent in Wales by Network Rail during the current control period and an outline business case for upgrading the north Wales main line. Addressed Avanti services reduction due to pandemic-related challenges, highlighting steps taken such as adding stops at Crewe and plans to restore service levels with nearly 100 new drivers entering service between April and December. Mentioned £20 million funding set aside for development work following Sir Peter Hendy's Union connectivity review.