The Welsh Government has called for negotiations with the UK Government over transport policy and investment to be accelerated, as work continues to improve connectivity and tackle congestion in South East Wales.
Deputy Minister for Transport Mark Hooper met Lord Burns last week to discuss the future direction of transport policy and investment across Wales.
Their discussions focused on progress towards implementing the Burns Review recommendations, including measures to reduce vehicle congestion on the M4 and deliver new rail infrastructure.
The meeting also covered the Railways Bill and the need to ensure Welsh passengers, businesses and cross-border communities benefit from future changes to the rail network.
Following the meeting the Deputy Minister for Transport Mark Hooper said:
“It was good to meet with Lord Burns and confirm our shared views on the key issues facing the future of transport in Wales. We were both in agreement that negotiations with the UK Government need to be accelerated to ensure Wales’ interests are properly represented.
“The Railways Bill is a great opportunity to develop these working relationships with the UK Government so that we can deliver real benefits for people in Wales and our border communities, both now and in the future.
“Lord Burns brought an invaluable depth of knowledge to the conversation, which I have no doubt will help strengthen future discussions with the UK Government, ensuring the interests of Welsh passengers are not overlooked by an overly centralised Great British Railways.”
Lord Burns, Chair of the Burns Review, added:
“The M4 congestion around Newport is an issue close to my heart. I remain committed to helping to achieve the best options for improving resilience, reliability and connectivity in Southeast Wales.
“The meeting this week has given me a valuable opportunity to understand the priority issues and to discuss with the Deputy Minister how we might address these challenges together.
“Better transport links are essential to the Welsh economy. They enable businesses to grow and thrive, and make it easier for people to travel, whether for work or leisure.”
The Burns Review recommended a package of 58 measures designed to create a network of alternatives around Newport.
These include six new railway stations, 23 miles of new rapid bus lanes and 20 miles of new cycle lanes, alongside improved rail services, stronger bus networks and better integration between different forms of transport.
The programme aims to give commuters and businesses more reliable alternatives to travelling on the M4, while encouraging greater use of public transport and active travel across the region.
