Ambitious plans to overhaul Cardiff Central railway station have been formally approved, paving the way for a £140 million transformation aimed at modernising one of Wales’ busiest transport hubs.
The redevelopment, led by Transport for Wales (TfW), promises increased capacity within the station concourse, smoother passenger movement, improved accessibility for people with reduced mobility, upgraded waiting areas, and new retail units alongside enhanced cycle storage. Although the station’s overall rail capacity will not change as part of these works, TfW says the project will “complement the history and heritage of the building” while significantly improving the passenger experience.
Funding for the scheme is being jointly provided by the Department for Transport, Cardiff Capital Region and the Welsh Government. The project had already secured planning permission, and now its full business case has been approved by all partners. Initial construction is set to begin later this year, with completion expected in 2028. Throughout the redevelopment, Cardiff Central will remain open.
Welsh Government transport minister Ken Skates welcomed the announcement, saying: “This is a major milestone for our ambitious plans to upgrade Cardiff Central station, a key hub on our South Wales Metro and gateway to Wales’ capital city. The joint £140m investment between Welsh Government, UK Government and Cardiff Capital Region will modernise and enhance the station, benefitting passengers and accommodating our ambitions for long term growth.”
As part of the revamp, the station’s gate line will be expanded to ease congestion, and improved cycle parking and a new Changing Places facility will be installed. TfW also emphasised that wider projects led jointly by Network Rail and TfW are underway to increase line capacity on routes into and out of Cardiff Central, which will in turn improve reliability and support potential new services.
The works will be carried out in phases, with TfW pledging to “minimise disruption as much as we possibly can”. However, passengers are being warned that some overnight construction activity may generate noise. TfW added: “Wherever possible, we’ll carry out works when the station is closed, including overnight. There may be times where we’ll need to put alternative walking routes in place to accommodate our works, but we’ll make sure directions are provided through signage, and station staff will be on hand to help our customers navigate these diversions.”
Separately, a new car park on the south side of the station is already under construction and is expected to open before the end of the year.
