Gloucestershire calls on Government for better rail links between county and South Wales

The letter has been sent jointly by Cllr Julian Tooke, Cabinet Member for Business, Economic Development, Planning and Infrastructure, and Cllr Roger Whyborn, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport and Road Safety, on behalf of the Forest of Dean Cabinet Panel.

The letter highlights the importance of better rail connectivity in supporting economic growth, improving access to jobs and education, and helping people travel more sustainably.

The Forest of Dean is currently served by Lydney railway station, which has an hourly service to and from Cardiff and Cheltenham. There are no direct rail services between the Forest of Dean and Bristol, requiring passengers to change trains at Severn Tunnel Junction.

In their letter, the cabinet members are calling for a second train per hour between Gloucestershire and South Wales, including improved connections at Severn Tunnel Junction to improve connectivity to Bristol.

They say more frequent services would make it easier for residents to access employment opportunities, education and essential services, while reducing reliance on private cars and helping tackle congestion on key routes, including around the River Wye crossing.

The letter, which has also been sent on behalf of Forest of Dean District Council, points out that the Forest of Dean has the lowest job density in Gloucestershire, meaning many residents travel outside the district for work. Better rail services would help strengthen links between labour markets in Gloucestershire, South Wales and the Bristol area, while supporting wider environmental and sustainable transport ambitions.

The council has asked the Minister to provide information on any planned service improvements, feasibility work or future opportunities to improve rail connectivity along the route.

Cllr Tooke said: “Good transport links are essential for our communities, businesses and local economy. Many people in the Forest of Dean travel outside the district for work, education and other opportunities, but rail connections do not currently meet the needs of residents.

“A more frequent service between Gloucestershire and South Wales would improve access to jobs and training, strengthen links with neighbouring areas and provide a more attractive alternative to travelling by car. We are asking the government to recognise the value of these cross-border connections and consider how future rail investment can support communities in the Forest of Dean and across Gloucestershire.”

To see a copy of the letter, go to: Letter to Rail Minister Lord Hendy from Cabinet Office at Gloucestershire County Council | Gloucestershire County Council