With GWR announcing 65 additional direct services between Carmarthen and Paddington, Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Stephen Crabb has called on rail bosses to put Pembrokeshire services back on their route map.
In a meeting held with GWR and Network Rail in Westminster earlier this week (Tuesday 28th), Stephen heard the news that all the additional GWR services will terminate at Carmarthen leaving the link to Milford Haven off the timetable.
Stephen Crabb MP urged them to listen to local concerns about the quality and reliability of rail services to and from Pembrokeshire and has called on GWR to review this decision which currently makes Carmarthen the final stop.
Highlighting that many West Wales services over the past year have not carried on beyond Carmarthen, while other services have been cancelled or delayed, he revealed the growing impact that this was having on Pembrokeshire rail users and the local economy.
Just earlier this month the MP called on the Welsh Economy Minister Vaughan Gething to improve rail services into Pembrokeshire as a vital step in boosting the number of overseas visitors to the County.
Following the meeting in Westminster, Stephen Crabb MP said,
“It is clear that GWR are committed to services to Carmarthen, but I am worried that Pembrokeshire services to West Wales are falling behind. I do not want to see Carmarthen becoming the end of the line for this important direct service. I want to see more services to Milford Haven which will also benefit communities in Whitland, Clarbeston Road, Haverfordwest, and Johnston.”
He added,
“I continue to press Transport for Wales, which is Welsh Government responsibility, on the frequent cancellations and delays to services running to Pembrokeshire. The service reliability needs to improve as it’s really having an impact on local rail users.”
Stephen Crabb has been a keen campaigner for improvements to Milford Haven Railway Station and he used the opportunity to highlight the need for a station upgrade which would create a welcoming and modern facility that reflects the vision, growth and regeneration of the town. He continues to work with the community to press Pembrokeshire County Council, the Rail Operators and Welsh Government to secure investment for this much needed station.
