Passengers are furious as over 650 trains were cancelled in Wales within a year, raising concerns about service reliability.
Wales: The train situation in Wales has really gone downhill lately. People are super frustrated because over 650 trains have been cancelled in just a year. That’s a lot of missed journeys!
Transport for Wales (TfW) has been running the show since they took over from Arriva about seven years ago. But honestly, it hasn’t been smooth sailing. A recent survey showed that only 72% of passengers were happy with the service. That’s the lowest in the UK!
One reader, Wrexham 1-0 Chester, joked about the new “Pats Coaches” buses replacing trains. It’s like they’re just trying to make do with what they have. Another user, Turk32, tried to stay positive, saying things are getting better.
But not everyone is convinced. Jessejackson shared a nightmare trip from Paddington to Cardiff where all the trains were cancelled. He’s now thinking of taking the coach instead, which is way cheaper and guarantees a seat.
Jacksea chimed in, saying the service is just not fit for purpose. Below stairs pointed out that this is typical of the current government’s issues. But Mak3 argued it’s more about underfunded infrastructure from the Tories.
Ianwales mentioned that the Tories scrapped important upgrades, leaving the trainlines in west Wales in a sorry state. Anothergrumpy added that no one uses the trains because they’re not good enough, and the money is being spent elsewhere.
Barrian highlighted how neglected the central Wales line is, and how the mid Wales line is being used for testing a new control system that’s causing more problems. It’s a mess, especially when disruptions happen.
VetchClock thinks TfW is doing okay, but most issues come from track and signalling failures. HappyObadiah, who’s been using the service for 30 years, said it’s never been this bad. He’s even started driving instead of taking the train!
Japar shared that at least half of his train journeys between Fishguard and Cardiff have been disrupted or cancelled lately. Plus, the info about alternative services is often wrong. It’s frustrating!
So, what do you think? Would you support nationalising the railways? Join the conversation and share your thoughts!
