Ambition North Wales has welcomed Transport for Wales’ new rail timetable, describing it as a major step forward for connectivity and a boost for the region’s economy.
Coming into force on Sunday 17 May 2026, the update will bring significant timetable changes for North Wales. The change will see an increase in the number of rail services along the North Wales coast by around 50% and introduce a wider redesign of services on routes north and west of Shrewsbury and Crewe.
Ambition North Wales – the region’s corporate Joint Committee, expects the increase in frequency of trains, particularly on the busiest sections of the Wales and Borders network, to make rail a more practical option for commuting, business travel and education, while supporting the visitor economy and reducing reliance on the car.
Councillor David A Bithell, Chair of the Corporate Joint Committee’s Transport Sub-Committee, said:
“More frequent, reliable rail services that are being introduced as part of Network North Wales are essential to unlocking growth across North Wales. This timetable is a welcome step forward. It will make it easier for people to get to work, alongside strengthening links between our communities, key employment sites and visitor destinations. We’ll continue to work with Transport for Wales and partners to make sure the improvements are delivered in a way that meets local needs and supports long-term investment in the region.”
Councillor Glyn Banks, Committee Vice-chair, added:
“The improved rail services are positive news for the region. The changes are important building blocks for long-term economic growth and will help businesses recruit and trade across a wider area, strengthening North Wales’ appeal as a place to invest, work and visit.”
Among the headline changes are trains from Manchester Airport that previously ran to Llandudno being re-routed to serve Holyhead, strengthened links with North West England and improvements to connections for passengers travelling to and from Ireland. Other changes include the extension of the Liverpool to Chester service through to Llandudno, creating new direct connections between North Wales and the Liverpool City Region. The new link is expected to improve access to jobs and services across the border, while helping more visitors reach North Wales towns and attractions by rail.
Local services on Anglesey and in Gwynedd will also be reshaped, with a new pattern intended to improve commuting options to Holyhead and Bangor, with Valley station becoming a compulsory stop on relevant services.