Train operator Lumo has confirmed that its new service from West Wales to London Paddington is on track to launch in December 2027. The open access operator, part of transport giant FirstGroup, will operate five return services daily, calling at Carmarthen, Llanelli, Gowerton, Cardiff, Newport, Severn Tunnel Junction, Bristol Parkway, and London Paddington.
Background of the Route
Grand Union Trains first secured approval for the route from the Office of Road and Rail (ORR) in 2022, after an initial application was rejected. The route faced opposition from GWR, which operates its own South Wales to London Paddington services. In 2024, Grand Union sold its rights to FirstGroup, though the value of the deal was not disclosed.
Lumo's Plans
A Lumo spokesperson said: 'Our new service linking South Wales with London Paddington is set to launch from December 2027. The service will introduce five brand new Hitachi trains and will bring affordable open access travel to even more communities, operating a single-class standard seating, offering all customers the best seats.'
Lumo declined to comment on projected passenger numbers for the first few years of operation. The company is also preparing to launch a new service linking Stirling with London Euston this spring, with tickets now on sale.
Transport for Wales Bristol Services
Transport for Wales (TfW) is seeking to run trains from South Wales to Bristol Temple Meads. Its application, which is not an open access bid, is currently being reviewed by the ORR. TfW plans to operate two services per hour between Cardiff Central and Bristol Temple Meads, stopping at Newport, Severn Tunnel Junction, Filton Abbey Wood, and Stepleton Road, with one train running via Bristol Parkway on weekdays.
West of Cardiff, TfW said services would originate from or extend to Fishguard or Milford Haven, with calling patterns varying. Stations such as Bridgend, Port Talbot Parkway, Neath, Swansea, and Carmarthen could be used. TfW stated its planned services would fit between existing GWR services from South Wales to Bristol Temple Meads.
A TfW spokesman said: 'We have submitted an application to the Office of Rail and Road for a new service between West Wales and Bristol, to begin in September 2026. As part of this process, we will engage with stakeholders, including Network Rail and other train operating companies, to discuss implications on performance and route capacity.'
The ORR could not provide a timeframe for a decision. TfW already operates cross-border services on its Wales & Borders network, including one from South Wales to Manchester.
GWR's Response
A GWR spokesman said: 'We welcome enhancements that provide additional levels of service for customers along a key route, but this must be done without detriment to existing or already agreed future services serving South Wales. We will continue to work with industry partners to develop railway services in the best way for passengers and taxpayers.'
