The Ebbw Vale railway line is nearing the end of its £70 million transformation, thanks to the efforts of contractors Amco Giffen and Siemens.
After a 19-day closure between Cardiff Central and Ebbw Vale Town, the railway is set to reopen for passenger train services. Network Rail thanked passengers and local communities for their understanding during the closure.
Since May 24, Network Rail engineers and contractors from Amco Giffen, Siemens, and their construction services team have worked tirelessly day and night to continue the line’s transformation. Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council has funded the major project through a loan from the Welsh Government.
Additionally, the Department for Transport and Network Rail have contributed £17 million to finance signalling upgrade and renewal work.
Construction work at Ebbw Vale railway line
The recent work included the construction of two new platforms at Newbridge and Llanhilleth stations. The work included installing new signal posts and embankment regrading and stabilisation. Furthermore, track positions in various locations along the line were also carried out.
Notable progress was made at Newbridge station, with constructing an access ramp and waiting shelter. Additionally, at Llanhilleth station, the lift mechanism and motor rooms were installed. The recent work block concluded on June 12, with five additional Sunday day closures scheduled for June and July.
Nick Millington, route director for Wales and the Borders, thanked passengers and local communities for their patience during the project. He acknowledged that railway closures are never convenient but necessary to safely and efficiently complete such extensive work.
He also emphasised the completed project’s benefits. These include a direct link to Newport, improved access to employment opportunities, leisure, and training, and enhanced rail travel options to Bristol, the Midlands, and London.
Jan Chaudhry-Van der Velde, Chief Operations Officer at Transport for Wales, highlighted the significant investment into the Ebbw Vale line, expressing gratitude to customers for their understanding and patience during the vital work.
The investment aims to enable more frequent and reliable services in the near future, providing substantial benefits to customers.
