Source · Select Committees · Welsh Affairs Committee
Recommendation 4
4
Paragraph: 37
The Union Connectivity Review represents a significant opportunity to establish priorities for rail infrastructure which...
Conclusion
The Union Connectivity Review represents a significant opportunity to establish priorities for rail infrastructure which will not only support economic development and decarbonisation in Wales, but improve the experience of those passengers for whom cross-border travel is simply local commuting. The UK Government was elected on the basis of a clear commitment to infrastructure investment and its response to Sir Peter Hendy’s final report will be an early test of that commitment. It is critical that a complementary approach is adopted by the UK and Welsh governments in the development of Welsh rail projects.
Paragraph Reference:
37
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
In response to the UCR’s interim report, the UK Government made available £20m for a new Union Connectivity Development Fund so that development work could be started on some of the most promising union connectivity schemes emerging from the Review. Positive engagement continues between the UK Government and the Welsh Government on rail feasibility proposals under the Union Connectivity Development Fund. The UK Government has received two proposals from Transport for Wales to the fund, which are currently being reviewed. The UK Government looks forward to publication of the final UCR report, which we expect in Autumn 2021 and will consider funding for Union connectivity schemes as part of the forthcoming Spending Review.