Evaluation of the Valleys Rail Strengthening project

The VRS commenced in January 2005 with the formation of the first ‘strengthened’ services, with funding to maintain service levels pledged through to 2018.

Three objectives were set for the VRS project.

• Objective 1: Encourage a modal shift by reducing the level of car usage, particularly single occupancy commuting.
• Objective 2: Enhance sustainable accessibility to employment opportunities, key services and enable local people to access education and training opportunities and major employment locations within Wales.
• Objective 3: Reduce congestion and harmful greenhouse gas emission levels through enhanced rail service during peak hour travel.

The evaluation was conducted post the reopening of Ebbw Vale Town and Pye Corner. The research findings reflect the situation at the time the research was conducted (December 2015).