New Cardiff railway bridge being built and months of disruption expected

Work will be happening at the site until next year

A new railway bridge is being built at Cathays railway station in Cardiff. It will mean step-free lift access for wheelchair users, improved walkways, and direct access to the Cardiff University’s Centre for Student Life.

The first stage of work is starting in mid-June but the project will take place in phases with the main construction starting in autumn 2026. Transport for Wales said it will be completed in 2027 with more detailed information shared as work progresses

The ‘access for all’ (AFA) footbridge will provide better accessibility and help modernise the station to a safer transport hub. Transport for Wales will issue regular updates and communications at each key stage – particularly on any impacts on residents, businesses or road users.

Dan Tipper from Transport for Wales said: “This investment is an important step in our ongoing work to improve accessibility and modernise stations across Wales. The new footbridge will make Cathays station safer, easier to navigate, and more welcoming for everyone who uses it.

“We’re working closely with Cardiff University and other local businesses to ensure the project supports the needs of the student and surrounding communities, and are looking forward to seeing it develop.” For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here

Senior project manager Alex Phillips said: “As we move into this first phase, our teams will begin setting up the site, implementing pedestrian diversions, and carrying out initial excavation and cable works.

“These are important enabling works for the wider project, and our focus is on delivering them efficiently while ensuring the station continues to operate as normal.”