New Railway Bridge To Bring Step-Free Access To Cathays Station

Work to install a new railway footbridge at Cathays station will begin on 13 June 2026 as part of a wider accessibility upgrade.

The new Access for All footbridge is intended to improve access through the station and help turn Cathays into a safer and more modern transport hub.

The scheme will include step-free lift access for wheelchair users, improved walkways and direct access to Cardiff University’s Centre for Student Life.

Transport for Wales said the improvements form part of the wider South Wales Metro programme, which is aimed at creating a more reliable, faster, greener and more accessible transport network for communities across Wales.

The Cathays project will be delivered in phases, with the main construction work due to start in autumn 2026.

TfW said it will provide regular updates as the work progresses, especially around any impact on residents, businesses and road users.

Early work will include setting up the site, putting pedestrian diversions in place and carrying out initial excavation and cable works. The station is expected to continue operating as normal during this first phase.

Dan Tipper, Chief Infrastructure Officer at 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.”

Alex Phillips, Senior Project Manager added:

"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.”

Image: Transport for Wales