Leading figures of the new Metro Delivery Partnership visited the site of Cardiff’s new Integrated Transport Hub where work is underway to prepare for construction of the new bus station and interchange.
The Welsh Government recently acquired the site for the new Interchange from Cardiff Council for £15m, including the rights to the original design, transport analysis, ground conditions, utility information and architectural principles.
The new Transport Interchange will be much more than just a bus station and will include shops, 300 apartments specifically designed for the rental market, 80,000 sq. FT of Grade A office space and related car parking.
The bus station itself will include 14 stands for buses and long distance coaches. The project is scheduled to complete by mid-2021 and will also include 1,000 cycle spaces as part of the overall developments in the immediate area and more space for rail passengers.
Economy and Transport Secretary, Ken Skates said, “I am pleased that following the Welsh Government’s acquisition of the Interchange Site, we have been able to move quickly to the start of construction on this vital project.
“As a Welsh Government we are committed to creating modern, integrated metro networks that put users right at their heart. Working with our partners we want to provide world class, accessible public transport that encourages the modal shift we need and sparks inclusive economic growth across wider geographical regions.”
“The Cardiff Central interchange is key to our wider vision for the South Wales Metro and we are proud to be working with Cardiff Council, Network Rail and Right Acres, under the terms of our newly agreed collaboration agreement, to make it a reality. “
“I am proud that Welsh Government involvement in this partnership is helping to deliver solutions that are firmly focussed on economic growth, and I am confident this will help attract wider investment. It is a model I’m keen to explore in other areas of Wales, too.”