Welsh Secretary at North Wales rail electrification meeting
Llandudno meeting makes a business case for electrification of the railway line from Holyhead to Crewe.
The process to develop a robust business case for the electrification of the main line in North Wales has taken an important step forward, said the Secretary of State for Wales, David Jones today following a meeting of stakeholders in Llandudno today [23 November].
At the meeting, which was chaired by Mr Jones and attended by leaders and chief executives of local authorities and the businesses community, it was agreed that the North Wales Economic Ambition Board will form the nucleus of the group which will build a business case for the electrification of the line from Holyhead to Crewe. They will work closely with the Mersey Dee Alliance, Cheshire Councils and Taith - the joint committee of the 6 north Wales county authorities for the purpose of developing and implementing actions and strategies for transport in North Wales.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr Jones said:
I’m delighted with the outcome of today’s meeting. We have now started the process which, I hope, will result in a strong and robust business case for the electrification of the railway line from Holyhead to Crewe.
This will not be a short process . Nevertheless this is an important first step and a clear demonstration of the commitment of the business sector and all levels of government in Wales to the electrification of the main railway line in North Wales. I look forward to seeing the business case develop.