Plans for Wrexham ‘Transport Hub’ Receives Boost

Work is underway exploring possibilities of significantly improving transport links in Wrexham and the surrounding areas.

An independent review and study of a Network Rail report on timetabling and capacity between Wrexham and Chester has been commissioned by the Welsh Government.

Grant funding is available for Wrexham Council to undertake a study into the feasibility of developing a transport hub at Wrexham General Station.

The news was announced last week in a letter sent by Minister for Economy, Science and Transport Edwina Hart, who said: “I am writing to inform you that I have recently agreed funding for my officials to commission an independent review of a Network Rail report on timetabling and capacity between Wrexham and Chester and grant funding for Wrexham County Borough Council to undertake a study into the feasibility of developing a transport hub at Wrexham General Station.

“The recommended independent report and the study by Wrexham County Borough Council will enable further consideration of rail improvements for North East Wales, where Network Rail has indicated that there is a number of infrastructure and timetabling issues.”

The recommended independent report and study by Wrexham Council will enable further consideration of rail improvements for North East Wales, where Network Rail is aware and has indicated there are a number of infrastructure and timetabling issues.

The Welsh Government’s £44m redoubling of the line between Rossett and Saltney is nearing completion following an unwelcome delay.

Lesley Griffiths AM has welcomed the latest development and said: “This Welsh Government announcement is a vital step forward. I have continually campaigned for infrastructure improvements in Wrexham and North East Wales and I am delighted this work is being undertaken.”

“It is important relevant bodies work together in order to ensure the best possible outcomes for Wrexham.”

North Wales’ Liberal Democrat Assembly Member Aled Roberts, added: “I am particularly pleased that the Welsh Government has agreed to a report by Wrexham Council considering the feasibility of developing a transport hub at Wrexham General Station with the aim of increasing rail-bus capacity.

“The delays to the existing dualling scheme between Wrexham and Chester are clearly a matter of concern with the commissioning of the new dualled section of line having been put back on a number of occasions.

“The independent report will review options that have been developed by Network Rail to improve further the line between Wrexham and Chester but delays to the existing scheme also need to be addressed.”