Following months of uncertainty, the Welsh Government has confirmed that the additional rail services between Fishguard and Carmarthen will be extended until the end of the current franchise in 2018.
Following a review of the pilot service introduced in 2011, the Transport Minister decided that the increased usage by passengers, and the positive effect that businesses have felt, was a strong case to continue funding the services until the end of the franchise.
Commenting on the announcement, local Assembly Member Paul Davies said: “This is fantastic news for Fishguard and Pembrokeshire. Doubts over the future of rail services in the area have caused uncertainty for rail passengers and so I’m pleased that the Minister has looked at the issue carefully and made the right decision.”
He added: “The additional rail services have brought a number of economic benefits, which have been felt in several communities across the County. They allow residents and visitors alike to move much more easily around Pembrokeshire and make local businesses and services much more accessible to the public. Therefore, I’m pleased that the Welsh Government has taken on board the views of local communities across Pembrokeshire and decided to extend the current services until 2018.”
