A new community rail partnership (CRP) has been launched in South East Wales, funded through Transport for Wales and supported by Community Rail Network.
Based in Merthyr, the Three Valleys CRP is hosted by Voluntary Action Merthyr Tydfil (VAMT) and includes representatives from the voluntary and tourism sectors, healthcare providers, community partners and rail industry.
The partnership becomes the sixth CRP operating across the Wales and Borders region.
Its objective will be to promote sustainable travel, health and wellbeing, and tourism and economic development along the railway lines and 35 stations linking Treherbert, Aberdare and Merthyr with Cardiff. By focusing on local projects, the partnership aims to make a real difference to the people and communities it serves.
Verity Lewis, Three Valleys CRP officer, said: “Over the past year we have valued the opportunity to engage with our local communities to create the partnership. As we continue the journey forward, we are committed to working closely with partners, organisations and the community, guided by the four pillars of community rail – while celebrating the spirit and heritage of the Valleys.”
Melanie Lawton, strategic lead for community rail at Transport for Wales, said: “We’re delighted to launch the partnership and welcome everyone associated with the Three Valleys to the community rail family.
“The railway is an important part of the Valleys heritage. By providing a voice for the community, the partnership can help people take full advantage of the enhancements being delivered by the South Wales Metro.”
Sharon Richards, chief officer for Voluntary Action Merthyr Tydfil, said: “As host organisation, VAMT is extremely proud of our officer’s role in shaping this partnership, and we look forward to the possibilities it opens up for innovation, growth, and long-term value across our communities”.
Learn more about Transport for Wales’s work in the community here.
Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from Three Valleys CRP via their Facebook page.