TRAIN operator CrossCountry has announced a new service linking Scotland, Wales and England by one train for the first time.
The services will be introduced as part of the rail industry’s twice-yearly timetable change, rolled out from December 15.
The 455-mile journey will connect 22 stations between Cardiff and Edinburgh directly by rail in what is thought to be the first service of its kind.
Passengers are already able to book journeys on the new route.
Reacting to the announcement, Scottish Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop (below) said: “The launch of a new direct weekday train service between Edinburgh and Cardiff for the first time is welcome news for rail users wishing to travel between these two capital cities.
“The new service should have a positive impact for jobs and local economic growth, while providing direct connectivity between Scotland, Wales and intermediary locations when it commences later this year.”
The new service will be formed by long-distance Voyager services departing from Cardiff and Penzance in the morning, joining together at Birmingham New Street before proceeding north to Edinburgh.
On the southbound journey, the long-distance Voyager train will depart from Edinburgh and proceed to Gloucester where the service splits into two.
Half of the train will travel onwards to Cardiff whilst the other half will terminate at Plymouth.
CrossCountry’s interim managing director Scott Maynard said: “We’re delighted to introduce this new service joining Cardiff and Edinburgh directly by rail for the very first time – meaning even more connections for customers across the length and breadth of the country.
“Thanks to colleagues across CrossCountry and the wider rail industry for their support in delivering these new services linking two of Great Britain’s capital cities, as well as many other key towns and cities in between.”
