Welsh Conservative leader Darren Millar has called for greater investment in rail infrastructure in Wales, specifically advocating for the electrification of the north Wales rail line. Millar emphasized the need for a more balanced approach to transport planning in Wales to ensure all regions benefit from improved rail connectivity. He urged for consequentials from the UK Labour Government to support rail investment in Wales, stressing the importance of fair funding allocation across all areas of public transportation, including buses.
In a conversation with Wales Online, Darren Millar highlighted the disparity in rail investment between Wales and England, citing the inadequate spending by Network Rail in Wales. He raised concerns about the significant shortfall in funding for Wales, particularly in the context of the HS2 project, which he estimated at £1.6 billion. Millar emphasized the urgent need for funding to electrify the north Wales railway line, calling for resources from HS2 consequentials to be allocated to Wales for this purpose.
The Conservative Senedd member expressed support for transformative projects like the electrification of the rail network, citing the success of previous commitments to improve rail connectivity in north Wales. He stressed the importance of a comprehensive approach to public transport infrastructure, highlighting the essential role of bus services in complementing the rail network. Millar underscored the necessity of strategic investments across all regions of Wales to address the imbalance in transportation funding.
Regarding the spending review and potential government funding for projects like the expansion of Heathrow, Millar reiterated the need for Wales to receive its fair share of investments. He criticised the Welsh Government’s approach to infrastructure projects, suggesting a lack of prioritisation for essential developments in rural areas beyond major cities like Cardiff and Swansea. Millar called for a renewed focus on road infrastructure projects that have been stalled or cancelled, urging for a holistic strategy to address transportation challenges in Wales.
In response to the proposed Great British Rail plan, Millar expressed reservations about a return to the centralized model of British Rail, advocating instead for modern and efficient rail infrastructure suited for the 21st century. He called on the Welsh Government to seize opportunities for significant investments in neglected parts of the rail network, urging a proactive stance in securing funding for key projects that can drive economic growth and connectivity across Wales.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding transport funding and planning, Darren Millar remained steadfast in his advocacy for equitable investments in Wales’ rail and bus networks. He urged for a comprehensive and integrated approach to public transportation infrastructure, emphasising the need for coordinated efforts to improve connectivity and accessibility for all communities in Wales. Millar’s call for fair funding and strategic investments reflects a commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure to support economic development and improve the quality of life for residents across Wales.