CARDIFF Capital Region (CCR) has welcomed the First Minster’s decision to approve planning for the new Cardiff Parkway project, saying the proposed train station and integrated business park can be transformational for South Wales.
CCR says the development offers a unique opportunity for prospective companies looking to invest in the UK with its strategic, central location in the Cardiff Capital Region and its connections with the rest of the UK.
Served by a new railway station, the St Mellons development will have direct links to Cardiff and Newport city centres as well as mainline train services to Bristol, London and beyond.
CCR says the project can become a catalyst for growth, contributing to the regeneration of East Cardiff and the wider Cardiff Capital Region by attracting investment, and business in a natural environment.
The Cardiff Parkway project will potentially be a key component of the CCR Investment Zone. The Investment Zone is a joint funding initiative from UK and Welsh Governments, with the intention to generate high-potential, knowledge-intense growth, driving the growth of key future sectors, with a funding package worth £160M over ten years.
Cllr Huw Thomas, Leader of Cardiff Council, and Deputy Chair of the South East Wales Corporate Joint Committee (SEWCJC) comprising the Leaders of from the ten unitary authorities within the Cardiff Capital Region, said:
“Cardiff Parkway will significantly improve our transport infrastructure, leading to economic growth and job creation across Cardiff and the wider region.
“With journey times between Cardiff and Newport reduced to just seven minutes, more than 800,000 passengers a year could benefit once this is up and running.
“This project will help tackle traffic congestion from the east of Cardiff, and as part of the CCR investment zone will bring additional benefits such as tax incentives and direct support for innovation to attract businesses and investors.”
Councillor Mary Ann Brocklesby, Chair of the South East Wales Corporate Joint Committee (SEWCJC) comprising the Leaders of from the ten unitary authorities within the Cardiff Capital Region, said:
“We’re delighted that Welsh Government has given approval of the Cardiff Parkway train station.
“The development has the potential to be transformational. It can be a catalyst for growth for the Cardiff Capital Region by attracting investment and businesses, and a transport hub that helps people to access employment opportunities both in Cardiff and across the region.”
