Council Leader welcomed at train simulator ahead of new train launch

Caerphilly Council Leader, Cllr Sean Morgan recently visited Transport for Wales’ (TFW’s) train simulator in Cardiff.

The visit comes days before the official launch of brand-new South Wales Metro Trains on the Rhymney Valley lines on Wednesday 29 March.

The Class 231 Fast Light Intercity and Regional Trains (FLIRTs), built by leading manufacturer Stadler, are part of the £800 million investment Transport for Wales is making in brand-new trains for the Wales and Borders network.

Providing increased capacity with more and improved seating, modern air conditioning, power sockets and passenger information screens with up-to-the-minute travel information, the new trains will transform the customer experience.

TfW will continue to introduce 35 of these trains over the coming years throughout South Wales, along with 36 electric tram-trains.

Each train will have space for up to six bikes and automatic level boarding to assist those with limited mobility.

Deputy Minister for Climate Change, with a responsibility for transport, Lee Waters said: “Travelling on these new carriages is such a different experience from travelling on the old ones. There’s more room, it’s much more comfortable and it is quieter and smoother. Come and give them a try.”

James Price, Transport for Wales CEO commented: “This is yet another key milestone for TfW, these brand-new Class 231 trains will transform the customer experience and signify the first deliverable of the South Wales Metro.  People are now starting to see transformation across our network with the introduction of brand-new, modern trains that will attract people to use public transport.”

Cllr Sean Morgan, Caerphilly Council Leader added: “It is finally great to see the launch of the brand-new South Wales Metro Trains, the first brand-new trains to enter service in South Wales for many decades. This important project will benefit passengers across the borough and further in the Cardiff Capital Region.”