Wales nationalizes railways after significant drop in passenger numbers Business

The Welsh government will nationalize its Wales and border rail franchise following a significant drop in passenger numbers.

The telegraph The decentralized administration reported on Wednesday was set to take action after bailout talks with franchise owner KeolisAmey failed to secure a private deal.

Transport Minister Ken Skates said bringing the franchise under public control would help secure the future of passenger services in Wales, protect jobs and secure the completion of the Southern Underground project from Wales.

KeolisAmey had operated rail services in Wales for just two years after taking over from Arriva Trains Wales.

Mr Skates said: “The past few months have been extremely difficult for public transport in Wales and across the UK. Covid has had a significant impact on passenger incomes and the Welsh government has had to intervene with a important support to stabilize the network and keep it running.