Nick Smith MP has criticised the failures that have led to the electrification of the Cardiff-Swansea line being put under risk (click here)

Speaking after the NAO report, Mr Smith said:

“It is disgraceful that the delays and poor planning of this project have cost the taxpayer hundreds of millions of pounds and thrown parts of the line’s electrification into doubt.

“The Department’s £330m overspend could have covered a huge chunk of the £433m needed to fund the Cardiff to Swansea electrification.

“Now we are not only being told there is no firm date for that work, but also there needs to be an assessment of whether it will even now go ahead.

“The unrealistic and inaccurate planning of Network Rail has seen a vital project for some of the busiest lines in Britain spiral out of control.

“They have done a disservice to this bedrock of a service for South Wales. We need answers and assurances that they will now deliver and not abandon this important work.”