Western Gateway to Launch Transformative Rail Deal in Cardiff – Aiming for £17bn Boost to UK Economy

Date: 28 January 2025Location: Hugh James offices, Central Square, Cardiff

The Western Gateway partnership is set to unveil its ambitious Rail Deal at a high-profile event in Cardiff on 28 January 2025. This transformative initiative outlines rail investments designed to unlock £17bn in economic benefits, with Wales playing a key role in this ambitious vision.The launch coincides with recent rail investment commitments from the UK and Welsh Governments, reaffirming rail’s pivotal role in driving the fastest-growing economy outside London.

What the Rail Deal Means for Wales and the Western Gateway

The Rail Deal builds on the Western Gateway Rail Vision 2050, launched in March 2023, by presenting actionable plans for enhanced connectivity and economic growth. Key highlights include:

Connecting 248,000 additional people to the rail network.
Delivering up to 30 new stations, including significant progress on the Burns Stations.
Driving regional projects such as mainline electrification and Metrowest.
Supporting innovation hubs like the Global Centre of Rail Excellence.
Backing investments such as the new Siemens Mobility signalling factory.

Speakers and Industry Leaders

The event will feature keynotes and panels with industry leaders, local authorities, and government representatives, including:

Sarah Williams-Gardener, Chair of Western Gateway
Huw Thomas, Leader of Cardiff Council
Representatives from Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway (GWR), Network Rail Wales & Western, and the Railway Industry Association Wales & Western.

Join the Conversation

The launch event will be held at the modern Hugh James offices in Cardiff’s Central Square. It offers a unique opportunity for stakeholders in Wales’ fintech, innovation, and infrastructure sectors to engage with transformative rail opportunities that will shape the future of the region.

Spaces are limited. To register for the event, click here.

For further inquiries, please contact [email protected].