Aberdare to Hirwaun new rail line or new road thats the question?
Below is part of a press release put out by the Labour-controlled Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, what would seem unusual is the wording in some parts of the report.
“WelTAG 1 study on options to extend public transport from Aberdare Station to Hirwaun”
“WelTAG 2 study to arrive at a preferred option and business case to progress detailed design.”
Network Rail has done a full and comprehensive report on extending the railway line from Aberdare to Hirwaun so the question to ask is why the council is now saying “study on options to extend public transport” not rail transport?
Study number 2 tells us “study to arrive at a preferred option” what is meant by the preferred option? Would that be a road instead of a railway with that new road incorporated within the proposed extension to the Aberdare Bypass?
The question we all should be asking is why have our elected representatives promised that the railway line yes a railway line will be extended from Aberdare to Hirwaun the propaganda put out by labour especially at election times, as I have said Network Rail has done a full and comprehensive report on extending the railway line so what is the purpose of further studies is it to change the original idea of a rail line?
Aberdare – Hirwaun Rail Line Extension
“£100k has been awarded to progress this scheme, which is being developed as a Metro Plus Phase 2 scheme with funding being provided by a partnership between the Cardiff Capital Region City Deal and Welsh Government. During 19/20, the Council secured funding to undertake a WelTAG 1 study on options to extend public transport from Aberdare Station to Hirwaun using the rail corridor. This work is being finalised and will provide a shortlist of options, which will be developed in more detail under the WelTAG 2 study to arrive at a preferred option and business case to progress detailed design. The scheme includes consideration of new stations at Trecynon, Hirwaun and at Tower strategic development site.”
