THE WELSH Liberal Democrats have criticised the UK Government for refusing to support improvements to rail services along the Shrewsbury–Wrexham–Chester line, after a Parliamentary Question confirmed that there are currently “no active proposals” to increase the frequency of trains on the route to two per hour.
At present, many stations on the line – including Ruabon and Chirk – are served by only one train per hour, leaving passengers with limited options for commuting, study, or leisure travel. The line is a crucial link between Shropshire, North Wales and Cheshire, connecting communities to major employment centres in Wrexham, Chester and Shrewsbury, and from there to Birmingham, Manchester and London. The Welsh Liberal Democrats argue that the Government’s refusal to back improvements risks holding back the economic, social and environmental potential of the region.
The Party has called for:
- Investment in an increased service frequency on the Shrewsbury–Wrexham–Chester line, with a long-term goal of two trains per hour.
- Closer working between the Department for Transport and Transport for Wales, recognising the cross-border nature of the route and the need for coordinated planning.
- Support for rural connectivity, ensuring that towns like Ruabon and Chirk are not left behind in favour of more urban centres.
- Better integration with the Cambrian Line, so passengers from Newtown and Welshpool can benefit from more frequent connections at Shrewsbury to Chester, Wrexham and the rest of North Wales.
The Party says that with increasing demand for greener transport, rising fuel prices, and a pressing need to boost regional economies, now is the time to invest in rail rather than hold back services.
The Shrewsbury–Wrexham–Chester line is already well used by people travelling for work, education and leisure, whether commuting for work or visiting Chester for shopping, tourism and onward connections.
Commenting Cllr Glyn Preston, Welsh Liberal Democrat Senedd candidate for Gwynedd Maldwyn (Montgomeryshire & Gwynedd), said: “The Government’s refusal to support more frequent services on this vital rail line is deeply disappointing.
“People in towns like Ruabon and Chirk rely on these trains for work, education and access to essential services, yet they are left waiting up to an hour for the next train. That simply isn’t good enough in 2025.
“More frequent services would transform connectivity across our region, not only for communities along the line itself but also for passengers further west in Newtown and Welshpool, who could enjoy faster and more reliable onward connections to Chester and Wrexham through Shrewsbury.
“Investment in rail is investment in jobs, education, tourism and in tackling climate change. It is time the Labour Government recognised that and backed the people of Mid and North Wales with the transport system we deserve.”
Jan Chaudhry van der Velde, TfW’s senior responsible officer for the Network North Wales programme, said: “Transport for Wales is committed to improving connectivity across Wales and the borders and recognises the important role the Shrewsbury–Wrexham–Chester line plays in linking communities and supporting the regional economy, particularly in North Wales.”
Written question answer found by clicking here.
