Clwyd West Assembly Member Darren Millar has welcomed transport plans announced by the Welsh Government today which will see Abergele become a Transport Hub and the rail link between North Wales and Liverpool restored.

The Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport’s ‘Transport Vision for North Wales’ Statement states “Our main focus continues to be on creating integrated transport hubs at key employment sites across north Wales and the wider Mersey Dee area. It is about better connectivity within, to and from and between the hubs. In north Wales these hubs are centred in the Bangor, Abergele, Rhyl, St Asaph, Wrexham, and Deeside areas.”

It later states “The way we are procuring future Wales and Borders rail services will improve the way that we can grow services across North Wales, and my first priorities are for improved services between North Wales and Liverpool via the Halton Curve as well as faster south to north Wales services in the morning and evening.”

Darren said:

“I am absolutely delighted that the Welsh Government want Abergele to be a transport hub. It is great news for local residents, businesses and visitors to the area.”

With regards the plans to restore rail links between North Wales and Liverpool via the Halton Curve, Darren added:

“I have been campaigning for years to get a direct service between North Wales and Liverpool reinstated, so I am extremely pleased that this has been identified as a priority for the new rail franchise.

“Liverpool is an important commercial centre and improving transport links will provide a huge boost to the North Wales economy in terms of access to jobs and promoting tourism. Shifting passengers from road to rail is also good for the environment.”

North Wales has not enjoyed a direct rail link with Liverpool since the 1970s, when it was incredibly popular for shoppers, commuters and tourists.