The Welsh Government has approved the Cardiff Parkway train station project, boosting local economy and job creation.
Cardiff: The Welsh Government has approved plans for a new train station at St Mellons. This station will include a large business park. The project has been in the works for over two years.
First Minister Eluned Morgan made the decision after a planning inspector recommended approval. Cardiff Council had already given the green light nearly three years ago.
Ms. Morgan noted that denying the project would go against the goal of a stronger Welsh economy. She emphasized the importance of sustainability and fair work in her approval letter.
The company behind the project, Cardiff Parkway Development, is mostly owned by Investec. The Roberts family and the Welsh Government also have stakes in the project.
The estimated cost of the station was initially £120 million. However, due to inflation and delays, this cost has likely increased. The company will now reassess funding needs.
Cardiff Parkway Developments has already secured land for the station. This will allow for the construction of four platforms.
The funding model relies on Transport for Wales leasing the station. If there’s a financial gap, the UK Government may need to step in.
Recently, Cardiff councillors showed unanimous support for the project. They believe it will greatly benefit the local economy.
A report from Savills suggests the project could create around 6,000 jobs. It could also boost the regional economy by £265 million annually.
Rolls-Royce has shown interest in the site for future investments. The train station’s excellent transport links make it an attractive location for high-skilled jobs.
