Services
Train services on the West Wales Line are sub-optimally distributed, and calling patterns compromised, by the existence of a stretch of single track on the otherwise double-track main line. This five-mile long stretch of single track runs between Cockett West Junction in the western suburbs of Swansea and Duffryn West Junction to the east of Llanelli. Within this section the River Loughor is crossed on a viaduct which would require significant works to accommodate two tracks. However, plans are being advanced to replace the viaduct and restore double track, expected to be complete in 2013.
One intermediate station, Gowerton, also lies on this single-track stretch, with just the former Down (i.e. westbound) platform in use for trains in either direction. The disused former Up platform (without track) is still in existence. Less than half of all trains passing through Gowerton can be scheduled to make stops owing to pathing limitations. Additionally, this tight pathing compromises route performance which can amplify delays and hence impact connections into and out of the long-distance Intercity services between Swansea, Cardiff and London. This is important since there are many interchange passengers from the Pembroke Dock line (which is mainly served by trains terminating at Swansea) for Cardiff and English destinations.
Additional problems are also found on the Single Lead Junction at Swansea Loop East junction (north of Swansea station), which causes conflict between trains from west of Swansea and the eastbound mainline High Speed Train services.
There are two passenger companies operating along this stretch, Arriva Trains Wales and First Great Western, as well freight trains serving the Robeston oil refinery near Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire.
Read more about this topic: West Wales Lines
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