Scrum for a train seat as rugby fans flock to Millennium Stadium

22.02.2010

Passengers travelling to the Wales Six Nations Rugby test match at Millennium Stadium on Friday may struggle to catch the train home.

The rail industry has warned passengers that services to and from the Welsh capital are going to be very busy and passengers should even consider accommodation or an alternative journey home.

Passenger Focus has subsequently called on the entire industry and the Welsh Assembly Government to improve planning of rail transport issues resulting from major sporting events being held in the country.

The independent passenger watchdog has been involved in the National Assembly for Wales’ consultation considering sporting events held in Wales and raised problems with transport. Issues highlighted include overcrowding at stations and on trains when sporting events are held.

Simon Pickering, Passenger Focus manager for Wales, said: “Arriva Trains Wales and First Great Western frequently tell us that they do not have sufficient carriages to run longer or additional trains to address all the overcrowding issues.
 
“When planning major sporting events special consideration must be given to how fans are going to get to and from the game and whether there will be enough room for the resulting surge in rail passenger numbers. Passengers and sport fans need all parties -- train and bus companies, the Welsh Assembly Government and the Stadium itself -- to be involved in finding new solutions.”

Stella Mair Thomas, Passenger Focus board member for Wales, said it was crucial that measures are put in place to ensure the railway can cope with the country’s sporting calendar. She said: “New solutions are needed to ensure that demand for accessing the Millennium Stadium is properly met. The Ryder Cup is happening in October – we hope the railway will be ready and able to cope with the number of passengers that will be travelling to the country for this prestigious event.”

Ends

1. Media enquiries regarding this release should be addressed to:
Krista Hamblin
Press officer
0300 123 0821/07918 626 045
krista.hamblin@passengerfocus.org.uk

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