MEMBER of the Senedd for Sir Fynwy Torfaen has welcomed the anticipated introduction of Transport for Wales services between Swansea and Bristol from December 2026.

In 2025, after raising the idea of such services with the Department for Transport and Welsh Government, Mr Fox was told by the previous Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Ken Skates MS, that TfW planned to begin operating services to Bristol from 2026, subject to approval and capacity. Mr Fox provided his support for the proposals to operate additional services into England.

After a recent sighting of a Transport for Wales service at Bristol Temple Meads station, Mr Fox submitted a number of questions to the Deputy Minister for Transport to see an update on the proposal.

The MS asked a range of questions on when the services were likely to be introduced, if there would be a knock- on effect elsewhere on the network and if the route would include any additional stops.

In the response, the Deputy Minister confirmed that TfW is currently awaiting approval of the access rights, but the services are included in the planned December 2026 timetable. TfW have commenced training and other works in anticipation of starting the services in a few weeks.

The MS also queried if the introduction of the new services would lead to a reduction in services on the Marches Line, and if the new route would stop at any stations in Monmouthshire. The Welsh Government have confirmed there will be no impact to planned service frequency or capacity on the Marches Line, with all services to include stops at Newport and Severn Tunnel Junction.

Mr Fox, who has long been an advocate of improved rail resilience and services has welcomed the anticipated introduction of the services in a few weeks, and the benefits they will bring for commuters and residents in Sir Fynwy Torfaen.

Local MS for Sir Fynwy Torfaen, Peter Fox, said:

“Whilst services already exist between South Wales and Bristol, increasing frequency is definitly a positive.

“Residents near Severn Tunnel Junction will welcome an increase in options that can take them towards Cardiff and Bristol, whilst other commuters will see the benefits too.

“I know residents who use the Marches Line will likewise be pleased to hear this additional proposed route will not impact the frequency of their services.

“I look forward to seeing these new services introduced in a few weeks, and the benefits they will bring for my residents.

“I will continue working towards other improvements to our railways in Monmouthshire and Torfaen.”