Rhondda railway line to Treherbert to reopen in February

A south Wales railway line will finally reopen in February, 10 months after closing for improvements.

The service from Pontypridd to Treherbert in Rhondda Cynon Taf will return following a major upgrade as part of the South Wales Metro project.

The 12-mile stretch of track shut down in April for outmoded signalling technology to be replaced.

In the meantime, passengers journeying between the two towns have had to use rail replacement buses.

The engineering work has seen Transport for Wales (TfW) and partners remove some of the oldest railway infrastructure in Wales, from the 19th Century.

It has been replaced with a new signalling system, including the installation of overhead line equipment that will electrify the line in the near future.

Additionally, three new track loops have been installed that will allow more frequent services, while various station work has included the extension of platforms, gas and water mains diversion and the addition of new footbridges.

TfW rail infrastructure director Karl Gilmore said: "This is another key milestone as we continue to deliver the South Wales Metro project for the people of south Wales.

"We've upgraded a Victorian railway line to a modern, 21st Century electrified line that will run brand-new tram-trains in the near future."

TfW drivers will begin training on the upgraded system from January, while new Metro trains are expected to start running from summer 2024.

Mr Gilmore thanked customers and those living near the railway "for their support and patience" during the work.

TfW will extend its Rhondda Railcard discount - which offered 50% off the cost of tickets while disruption was ongoing - until May.