Following analysis of data detailing punctuality of trains in Wales, Janet Finch-Saunders, Assembly Member for Aberconwy, has found that 8,860 trains were cancelled in 2016/17 [see notes].

Janet said:

“The Welsh Government should be ashamed of the fact that almost 9,000 trains were cancelled in Wales in 2016-17.

“Even more alarming is the fact that year on year, the number of trains cancelled is increasing, such as by 2,715 cancellations from 2011/12 to 2016/17.

“Before the situation rolls out of even more control, the Welsh Government needs to acknowledge that these cancellations have a negative impact on our economy, and cause huge frustration to users.

“Going forward, we now have a fantastic opportunity to get the situation back on track: through the bidding process for the next Wales and Borders rail franchise. However, that this will actually see major improvement is now in doubt as the Welsh Government has seen yet another major bidder withdraw its tender at this late stage.

“If by luck a bidder remains to take over the trains I cannot stress enough the need for the Welsh Government to ensure that reducing cancellations is made one of the key franchise objective”.

ENDS

Notes

Table: Number of trains cancelled

Punctuality of trains arriving within the estimated time of arrival by year