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The busiest railway station in Wales, Cardiff Central, is set to undergo a significant transformation following the final approval of refurbishment plans. This extensive £140 million project includes the addition of a rear entrance featuring distinctive brick arches, expansion of the concourse area, and enhanced waiting facilities. The improvements are intended to accommodate growing passenger numbers and ease current overcrowding issues.
Among the proposed upgrades are better accessibility provisions for individuals with reduced mobility, as well as new retail spaces and improved cycle storage options. Construction work is scheduled to begin in mid-next year, with the bulk of the project anticipated to be completed within three years. Importantly, Cardiff Central will remain operational throughout the duration of the refurbishment.
Currently, the station serves around 35,000 passengers daily, with numbers increasing during major events such as concerts and rugby internationals, according to the Department for Transport. The initiative is led by Transport for Wales and backed by a combination of funding sources: £78 million from the UK Department for Transport, £40 million from the Cardiff Capital Region City Deal, and £21 million from the Welsh government. The DfT’s contribution is part of a broader £445 million investment package for rail improvements across Wales announced in the Chancellor’s recent spending review.
UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander expressed optimism about the project’s impact, stating it would “transform the experience of the millions of passengers who use the station every year” while also enhancing connectivity throughout Wales and beyond. Welsh government Transport Secretary Ken Skates highlighted the upgrade as a “major milestone” for Cardiff Central, describing it as a vital hub within the South Wales Metro network. Skates emphasized that the investment would modernize the station, support passenger needs, and align with long-term growth ambitions. Additionally, the revamped Wales Rail Board is set to convene soon to discuss this and related future projects along with funding considerations. The Cardiff Central station itself, which originally opened in 1850, has undergone several name changes, becoming Cardiff General in 1924 and adopting its current designation in 1973
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