It was back in 2013 that plans to transform Cardiff Central Railway Station were first revealed, but six years on and a funding solution for a much needed upgrade of Wales’ busiest train station still remains elusive.
Many will argue that as a non-devolved rail asset that a required £100m plus upgrade of the station should be an enhancement project funded entirely by the UK Government.
By 2023 the station is expected to see passengers hit 23 million per annum, when electrification of the core Valley Lines into the Cardiff is scheduled to be completed.
As well as the need to lengthen platforms, at peak commuting times the current footprint of the station, and its relatively narrow passenger tunnels, raises potential safety concerns as passenger numbers continue to rise.
Network Rail back in 2013 unveiled plans to transform the station, but the project never advanced beyond an initial evaluation stage.
But is there now light at the end of the tunnel with the Welsh Government and UK governments in talks, although they have been going on for more than two years, towards secure the necessary funding to get the project realised?
While only indicative at this stage a redevelopment of the station has been put at around £120m.
And it all hinges of the UK Government stumping up a modest £50m, against a backdrop of woefully under investment in the rail network in Wales going back decades. Despite having around 11% of the rail network in the Wales, since 2011 it has received only just over 1% of UK rail enhancement investments.
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Last year the cabinet of Cardiff Capital Region in principle committed £40m towards a station upgrade from the £1.3bn City Deal.
The Welsh Government has committed around £40m, but that also includes backing for a £25m new bus station at the nearby Interchange scheme at Central Square.
The project could also secure millions in private backing from commercial developments in and around the station, including a new car park that would also serve the Central Quay scheme immediately south of the station.
A major new passenger tunnel ‑ linking the current two at either ‑ through the heart of the station, creating much wider access gates to the platforms, is envisaged, as well as platform extensions.
At this stage it is unclear whether a new roof would be included, while whatever any final design plans the listed facade of the station will be maintained.
New concourses north and south of the station would also be created with opportunities for retail and office developments.
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In a statement the Welsh Government said: “The Welsh Government is not currently responsible or funded to deliver railway infrastructure, we have asked the Department for Transport to fund only those elements that would deliver sufficient capacity for train services and allow efficient passenger movements through the station.
"The £40m contribution from the Cardiff Capital Region city deal funding for the improvements to the wider station environment is dependent on match-funding from the UK Government.”
A spokesperson for the Department of Transport said: “We have provided funding to develop strategic outline business cases for six rail infrastructure schemes in Wales, and look forward to receiving these
“Schemes which can deliver significant benefits to passengers in Wales and have a strong business case will be fully considered as a potential priority for this Government.”
