Metro Transformation Work: changes to train services
How it will affect your journey plans
While we build this better transport network over the next few years, it may mean temporary periods of change to your journey plans. Where possible we are scheduling the transformation work to take place during less busy times to minimise disruption and offering connections between rail services and bus services.
Timetables are being updated weekly due to coronavirus, please check before you travel
Please don’t forget, our trains are currently for key workers and essential travel only. Find out more here
You must wear a face covering on public transport and put it on before travelling unless you’re exempt. Please be respectful, not everyone can wear a face covering. For guidance visit trc.cymru/face-coverings.
Last updated: 20 July 2020
Metro transformation work: phase one
Weekend 01/02 August 2020
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Saturday 01 August
Bus services will replace train services all day between Pontypridd - Radyr extending to Aberdare. Train services will continue to run between Cardiff Central - Radyr and Merthyr Tydfil / Aberdare – Pontypridd -
Sunday 02 August
In the morning, bus services will replace train services around the whole of the local Cardiff and Valleys network.In the afternoon, bus services will replace train services between Radyr - Pontypridd extending to Aberdare. Train services will continue to run between Cardiff Central - Radyr and Merthyr Tydfil / Aberdare – Pontypridd.
03 August – May 2021
The major part of this phase starts on Monday 3 August 2020 with improvement work taking place on the Treherbert, Aberdare and Merthyr lines from Radyr station northwards.
The work will take place late evening and overnight Sundays through to Thursdays during this period, closing this part of the network from 2000 to 0500.
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Bus services will replace rail services to and from our bus/rail inter-change hub at Radyr station.
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The normal train timetable will continue to run between Cardiff Central and Radyr until close of service.
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Early morning train services will not be affected and will run as usual.
Travel Advice FAQs
What work will be undertaken during this period?
A whole package of works is planned including track and signalling work along with general maintenance.
Find out all about Metro here.
When will the revised timetables be in online booking systems?
Due to the Coronavirus situation, we are currently running a reduced amended timetable with train timetables being uploaded into online ticket booking systems a week in advance. Please check your journey plans before you travel. Amended bus service timetables will be displayed at your local station from July.
Please don’t forget that, at the current time, all our train services are only for key workers and essential travel. Our latest train travel advice is here.
What will I expect when I arrive at the Radyr station inter-change hub?
Radyr station will act as the main inter-change hub between rail and bus services. Customer service teams will be at hand at Radyr station to direct customers to and from the inter-change hub situated in the adjacent car park. Road transport has been arranged to link in with train services to keep wait times to a minimum. Toilet and shelter facilities will be available.
Where will I be picked up or dropped off at my local station?
Most bus service pick up / drop up points are situated outside the station. They will be clearly signposted but you can check out the location of your rail replacement bus stop here (choose your station then Car Park Information) or on the Useful Information Poster at your station.
I usually take my bike on the train as I need it for onwards travel – can I take it on the bus service?
Normally bikes are not permitted on rail replacement bus services however where possible bikes may be carried dependent on the driver’s discretion and space available. Any bikes carried on our bus services is at your own risk and Transport for Wales cannot accept responsibility for any damages.
Can I take my dog on the bus service?
Normally dogs are not permitted on rail replacement bus services except guide dogs.
Can you take prams on the bus service?
Prams are allowed however we ask that they are folded up before boarding.
How much extra time will the bus service leg of my journey add to my overall journey?
For the exact times you will need to check your specific journey plans but here’s a guide for some key journeys. These are based on average times for the time of night travelled.
| Route | Approx bus service times |
| Radyr - Pontypridd | 00:35 hrs |
| Radyr - Merthyr Tydfil | 01:20hrs |
| Radyr - Aberdare | 01:20hrs |
| Radyr – Treherbert | 01:25 hrs |
Can I buy a ticket on the bus?
There are no ticket purchasing facilities on board buses. Tickets must be bought before boarding a bus at your local booking office, ticket machines, on-line using our journey planner or from our app.
I am a wheelchair user, can I access the rail replacement bus service?
The buses are wheelchair accessible with low loading floors. For advice and to book assistance in advance call our Passenger Assist team 03330 050 501.
Future Improvement Work
For planned improvement works across our network that can affect the timetable please visit this page.
