The Welsh Government has announced that there is to be improvement to transport facilities in South Wales, as part of the Metro Plus Programme.
The Metro plus Programme is a group of schemes, worth £50 million, looking to support the plan for the wider South Wales Metro in its mission to transform transport and travel around the region.
By integrating rail, bus, cycling and walking, it is hoped that the project will improve connectivity and make it easier to enjoy sustainable travel across the South Wales region. New park and ride facilities, on-site EV charging, new rail and bus interchanges, secure bike parking and easier access will help to make the project a success, with the new infrastructure expected to enable 20% of Cardiff’s commuters to do so by bus by 2030.
David TC Davies, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Wales, said in a visit to the Porth Transport Interchange:
“It’s great to see construction underway on projects that will have a huge benefit for the area and its people and businesses. A modern, green, seamless transport system is vital for supporting jobs and prosperity, and the UK government is proud to help fund this work.”
The Porth Transport Interchange is set to include seven operational bus bays, 2 lay-over spaces and the ability to charge electric vehicles, something which is crucial as the country continues moving towards the 2030 cut-off date for new petrol and diesel sales.
£125 million is being committed by the UK Government to support the project, through the Cardiff Capital Region City Deal, as well as Levelling Up Funding from the UK Government providing £3.5 million.
RCT Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity, Cllr Mark Norris, added:
“The improvements to public transport and vital to support jobs and prosperity in South Wales. The region amounts for about 50% of the total economic output of Wales, and it is home for almost half the total population of the country.
“Ensuring infrastructure is fit for the future will have a significant economic impact, improving lives and helping to achieve the UK Government’s aim of levelling up communities.”
