First Minister, Carwyn Jones and Transport Minister, Carl Sargeant, have welcomed the announcement by the Secretary of State for Transport that the Great Western Main Line to Swansea and the Valley Lines network will be electrified.

Responding to the announcement, Mr Jones, said: "I am delighted that electrification of the Great Western Main Line to Swansea and the Valley Lines network has been included for delivery in the next railway investment period.

"Investing in our transport infrastructure is vital as we look to improve the economic competitiveness of Wales and the electrification of the Great Western Main Line from Cardiff to Swansea will provide a strengthened east-west economic corridor that will enhance Swansea’s role as an economic hub."

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Carl Sargeant added: "Electrification of the Valley Lines offers the opportunity for a step change in mobility and connectivity to employment centres for our Valleys communities, as well as a larger employment catchment area for businesses looking to invest in the region.

"An electrified rail network is more economical to operate and maintain which will deliver value for money to the taxpayer. Passengers will travel in a more environmentally sustainable way and experience a quieter, faster journey with savings of up to 20% on existing timetables.

"The decision to invest in these projects represents the first step towards achieving my vision for a modernised rail infrastructure across the whole of Wales. We can build on this announcement by moving to the next stage in planning a truly integrated transport system for the south-east region.

"We will now work with the Department for Transport and Network Rail to ensure that electrification of the Great Western Main Line to Swansea will be delivered by 2018 and that Valley Lines electrification coincides with the re-letting of the next Wales and Borders franchise."

(CD/GK)