The dawn of a new era for rail passengers in Wales and the Borders took place last weekend as Transport for Wales takes over from Arriva Trains Wales.

James Price, Chief Executive of Transport for Wales, says that passengers can expect their rail service to be transformed within just five years. By 2023, 95% of passengers’ journeys will take place on new, higher capacity trains and there will also be 285 extra services every weekday.

“From Sunday, the Transport for Wales brand will start to appear on uniforms, around stations and on trains and posters,” he said. “Passengers will be welcomed by the same staff, and travel on the same trains on the same routes and timetables – and, importantly, their existing tickets will all still be valid as before. “Behind the scenes, lots more positive changes will be starting to happen, and we’ll be keeping passengers informed all the way along.”

A “railmap” of improvements has now been published for customers. “Coming Down the Track” details a raft of transformational improvements by 2025 that include new and improved stations, better services, more carriages, new and completely rebuilt trains, better-value fares, pay-as-you-go travelcards, free wifi, improved accessibility for those with mobility problems at all stations, and new websites and apps to help passengers stay informed and buy tickets easily.

Mr Price explained that the Transport for Wales team has planned all improvements with the difference a reliable rail service makes to people’s lives as the primary motivation.