Cardiff Central Station, Wales’ most important railway hub and the gateway to the capital for millions of passengers each year, is to be completely modernized.
The GBP 140 millionproject has been given the green light after funding was approved by the Department for Transport, Cardiff Capital Region, and the Welsh Government.
The work will transform one of the busiest and oldest stations in the UK without affecting daily train operations. Construction will begin next year.
Expanded spaces, improved access, and a modern passenger experience
The modernization plan aims to support long-term traffic growth while preserving the historic character of the 175-year-old building.
Improvements include:
- a much larger main concourse to increase capacity and improve passenger flow;
- new solutions to reduce overcrowding;
- improved accessibility for people with reduced mobility;
- modernized waiting areas;
- new retail spaces and bicycle parking facilities.
The station will remain open throughout the works.
A key project for Metro Central and the Welsh economy
The modernization is being managed by Transport for Wales (TfW) as part of the wider South Wales rail transformation strategy and the Metro Central program—the integrated hub that will connect the train network to buses, cycling, walking, and the Core Valley lines.
A project coordinated by the new Wales Rail Board
The station’s transformation coincides with the first meeting of the new Rail Board, which is meeting in Cardiff to set investment priorities, monitor ongoing projects, and identify new initiatives.
Vernon Everitt, the current TfW chairman, takes over as chair of the board, and TfW will publish its strategic document “Today, Tomorrow, Together” this month, setting out its vision for the future of rail in Wales.
Work to start in 2026, with the station open to the public
The design and build contractor is BAM Nuttall, selected following a tender process. All images and digital simulations published by TfW are illustrative and may be subject to change during the course of the project.
The ultimate goal is for the new Cardiff Central Station to become:
- an integrated hub for metropolitan transport;
- a modern and accessible gateway to the Welsh capital;
- a venue capable of hosting major events such as EURO 2028;
- and a central element of urban regeneration in the Cardiff Capital Region.
Work is scheduled to begin next year, and the station will remain operational throughout the project.
Share on:
