Will the Minister provide an update on proposals to reopen the rail link between Carmarthen and Aberystwyth?
Rail infrastructure in Wales is reserved and the responsibility of the UK Government.
The Aberystwyth to Carmarthen Feasibility Study published in 2018 estimated the cost of reinstatement of the line at £775m. Following the publication of the study, we identified the west coast line, including Aberystwyth to Carmarthen, as a key strategic corridor development in our response to the UK Government’s Williams Rail Review. This was part of a clear, comprehensive and conclusive case for full rail devolution and a fair funding settlement
Furthermore, as part of Welsh Government's 2021 Co-operation Agreement with Plaid Cymru, we committed to explore the development of transport links between north and south Wales, including how to protect potential travel corridors on the west coast of Wales. We are working with Transport for Wales to deliver this commitment.