THE UK GOVERNMENT has, for the first time, admitted that Wales has been underfunded in rail infrastructure. However, despite this significant acknowledgment, concrete financial commitments remain absent, raising concerns about the future of Wales’ rail network.

In a letter from Transport Minister Heidi Alexander and Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens, the Government admitted that railways in Wales have suffered from “low levels of enhancement spending” in recent years. The letter follows criticism of underinvestment compared to projects like HS2, which has excluded Wales from its benefits while consuming billions of public funds.

The correspondence recommended prioritising key initiatives, including new stations on the South Wales mainline and upgrades to the Borderlands line between Wrexham and Liverpool, as suggested by the North Wales and South-East Wales Transport Commissions and the Union Connectivity Review. However, it stopped short of detailing how much funding Wales can expect or whether spending levels will align with those in England.

First Minister: A ‘step forward’

First Minister Eluned Morgan called the admission a “massive step forward,” noting during a Radio Wales interview that this marked the first time in 14 years the UK Government has admitted to underfunding Wales’ railways. However, she cautioned that discussions are ongoing and described the Welsh Government’s “long list” of rail projects ready for potential funding.

Morgan reiterated her concerns over HS2, labelling its classification as a project benefiting both England and Wales a “fundamental injustice.” She argued that Wales should receive at least 5% of the HS2 budget—a consequential sum of around £4bn—none of which has yet materialised.

Plaid Cymru: ‘Labour failing to deliver’

Plaid Cymru criticised the First Minister’s optimism, accusing Labour of failing to secure the funding Wales is owed. Llyr Gruffydd MS argued that the letter fails to address the unfairness of HS2 or commit to rectifying the £4bn shortfall. He called for the full devolution of rail infrastructure to ensure Wales receives equitable investment.

Gruffydd said: “The First Minister must be reading a different letter. It does not acknowledge the unfairness of HS2 nor promise to right the wrong of the £4bn consequential owed to Wales. Labour must deliver on their promises if they are serious about fair funding for Wales.”

Calls for reform

Transport experts have echoed calls for substantial reforms. Professor Stuart Cole advocates for the full devolution of rail infrastructure, allowing Wales to manage its transport priorities. Meanwhile, Professor Mark Barry proposes that, in the absence of devolution, Wales should receive a ring-fenced fund of £2bn to £3bn over 15 years to address critical infrastructure needs.

What next for Wales’ railways?

While the UK Government’s recognition of underfunding is a crucial first step, the lack of firm financial commitments leaves Wales in uncertainty. The Wales Rail Board has highlighted immediate priorities, including Metro-style services, new stations, and capacity upgrades. However, with the UK Government citing public finance constraints, it remains unclear whether recognition will lead to real investment.

As spending decisions loom, Wales faces a critical question: will the UK Government back its words with action, or will this become another missed opportunity to rectify decades of neglect?

Photo caption: Underfunded: Wales’ rail network faces an uncertain future despite acknowledgment of funding shortfalls (Pic: Herald).