Transport for Wales (TfW) and GCRE Limited have signed heads of terms for TfW to become a major commercial client of the Global Centre of Rail Excellence (GCRE).
The Global Centre of Rail Excellence is a GBP 400 million (EUR 454 million) research, testing and certification facility for rolling stock, infrastructure and innovative new rail technologies being constructed at the head of the Dulais and Swansea Valleys.
As part of the GCRE membership model, companies can take guaranteed testing and research time at the site when it opens, according to their innovation needs.
The agreement demonstrates TfW’s intent to take the highest level of membership at GCRE and become a ‘Premium’ client of the facility, due to be completed in 2025. The collaboration will see GCRE support Transport for Wales with its rail testing, innovation and R&D.
As well as testing, R&D and innovation, the deal paves the way for TfW to use other GCRE services, including storage, training and product approvals in future as these are developed.
“I’m pleased to finalise this exciting partnership with Transport for Wales, a long-term agreement that will see TfW become a premium client of the Global Centre of Rail Excellence and secure access to the world class testing and innovation facilities we will have on site. What GCRE can provide to Transport for Wales is an international quality, purpose built and offline facility, right here in Wales, that can support the TfW team as they implement their ambitious strategic programme,” Chief Executive of GCRE Limited, Simon Jones, said.
Transport for Wales implements essential projects for to increase passenger transport ridership including the electrification of railway lines, metro projects in South Wales, Swansea Bay and North and upgrades and improves train stations across the Wales and Borders. Recently, a strategy for 2050 has been unveiled to revolutionise rail transport in South Wales and the Western England.
“The rail industry in Wales is currently going through a major transformation with the South Wales Metro being built and the introduction of brand-new trains throughout the network,” Chief Executive of Transport for Wales, James Price said.
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