The Treherbert rail line will reopen to passengers in February having been closed since last April as part of the £1bn South Wales Metro rail electrification project.
Work on the Victorian built line, overseen by Transport for Wales (TfW), has removed some of the oldest railway infrastructure in the UK and replaced it with a new signalling system including the installation of overhead line equipment.
Additionally, three new track loops have been installed that which will allow more frequent services with various station works including the extension of platforms at Treherbert, Ynyswen and Dinas Rhondda and new footbridges at Ynyswen and Dinas Rhondda.
Due to extensive drainage works required to prevent flooding at Ynyswen Station, and delays in obtaining the required land agreements to undertake work, TfW said it will continue work at the site throughout 2024. A reopening date for the station is planned for later in the year. The Metro will also see the Rhymney, Aberdare and Merthyr lines electrified, with the Coryton and City lines also being upgraded.
Starting next month TfW drivers will begin their training on the upgraded line, new track layout and signalling systems, as well as further training on the new Metro tram-trains.
Bus replacement services will remain in place on the Treherbert until passenger trains recommence in February when TfW will initially reintroduce two trains per hour. New Metro tram-trains are expected to enter service from next summer.
Karl Gilmore, rail infrastructure director for TfW, said: “This is another key milestone as we continue to deliver the South Wales Metro project for the people of South Wales. We’ve upgraded a Victorian railway line to a modern, 21st century electrified line that will run brand-new tram-trains in the near future.
“I’d like to thank all our customers and railway neighbours for their support and patience during this time of transformation. In 2024, people will really start to see the benefits from much of the work that has been carried out.”
