Aberdare to Hirwaun

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Background to the project

Transport for Wales (TfW), working in partnership with Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, is exploring the potential to extend the existing railway north from Aberdare to Hirwaun. The proposal forms part of the wider South Wales Metro vision, which aims to improve public transport connections and make it easier for people to travel across the region.

It’s a proposal that forms part of our future plans and is in very early development. Whilst it doesn’t have full funding yet, it is one the schemes listed in our vision as having had early development and an ideal scheme for investment to take to future stages.

At this early stage, we’re keen to understand public views on the proposal.

The proposal involves reopening the existing railway corridor between Aberdare and Hirwaun, which was previously used for freight services, and enabling passenger trains to run on it.Potential new stations are being considered at Llwydcoed and Hirwaun, with a possible future extension to the Tower Colliery site.

The proposal is being developed to understand whether improved public transport connectivity could support local communities, businesses and visitors by providing better access to jobs, education, healthcare and leisure destinations. It could also help support future housing, regeneration and economic growth opportunities in the Upper Cynon Valley.

At this stage, the proposal remains in development and no decisions have been made on the final design, type of railway, or whether the scheme will proceed. Significant investment would be required to reintroduce passenger services, and funding for delivery has not yet been secured. We are therefore seeking early feedback to understand local priorities, opportunities and concerns before any decisions are made.

The feedback gathered through this engagement will help inform the next stage of development and Help make the case for investment so we can aim to secure future funding.

We are therefore seeking early feedback to understand local priorities, opportunities and concerns before any decisions are made around next steps.

Background to the project

Transport for Wales (TfW), working in partnership with Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, is exploring the potential to extend the existing railway north from Aberdare to Hirwaun. The proposal forms part of the wider South Wales Metro vision, which aims to improve public transport connections and make it easier for people to travel across the region.

It’s a proposal that forms part of our future plans and is in very early development. Whilst it doesn’t have full funding yet, it is one the schemes listed in our vision as having had early development and an ideal scheme for investment to take to future stages.

At this early stage, we’re keen to understand public views on the proposal.

The proposal involves reopening the existing railway corridor between Aberdare and Hirwaun, which was previously used for freight services, and enabling passenger trains to run on it.Potential new stations are being considered at Llwydcoed and Hirwaun, with a possible future extension to the Tower Colliery site.

The proposal is being developed to understand whether improved public transport connectivity could support local communities, businesses and visitors by providing better access to jobs, education, healthcare and leisure destinations. It could also help support future housing, regeneration and economic growth opportunities in the Upper Cynon Valley.

At this stage, the proposal remains in development and no decisions have been made on the final design, type of railway, or whether the scheme will proceed. Significant investment would be required to reintroduce passenger services, and funding for delivery has not yet been secured. We are therefore seeking early feedback to understand local priorities, opportunities and concerns before any decisions are made.

The feedback gathered through this engagement will help inform the next stage of development and Help make the case for investment so we can aim to secure future funding.

We are therefore seeking early feedback to understand local priorities, opportunities and concerns before any decisions are made around next steps.

  • This survey is part of an early engagement exercise to understand local views on transport connectivity in the Upper Cynon Valley and gather feedback on the proposed rail extension. We want to hear from residents, businesses, commuters and local stakeholders about the opportunities, concerns and priorities that should be considered as the project develops. 

    Your feedback will help inform the next stage of design and business case development. This is not a statutory consultation and is not seeking views on a final scheme. Instead, it is an opportunity to help shape future proposals before any decisions are made. 

    The survey should take approximately 5 minutes to complete. Thank you for taking the time to share your views. 

    Take Survey
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Page last updated: 12 Oct 2026, 10:38 AM