A proposed project to transform Severn Tunnel Junction railway station into a major regional transport hub was discussed during a visit by the Welsh Government’s Deputy Minister for Transport, Mark Hooper MS, on Thursday 8 October.
Representatives from Monmouthshire County Council, including Council Leader, Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, Cllr Paul Griffiths, and Cllr Catrin Maby, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment discussed how investment in road access could unlock significant economic, transport and environmental benefits for the local and wider area.
Central to the proposal is a new M48 junction and access road linking directly to Severn Tunnel Junction station. The scheme is aimed at making it easier for motorists to access the railway network, encouraging a shift from road to rail and reducing pressure on the congested M4 corridor.
The proposal would support wider ambitions for a fully integrated South East Wales Metro.
A direct connection between the motorway and the station would also make better use of existing facilities and could enable Severn Tunnel Junction to develop into a strategic Severnside Parkway station, serving a much larger catchment area and supporting sustainable economic growth across the region.
Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, Leader of Monmouthshire County Council, said: “We appreciate today’s visit by the Deputy Minister for Transport. The proposal discussed has the potential to be transformative, not just for Monmouthshire but for the wider region. By improving access to the rail network, we can create better connections for residents, support economic growth and make it easier for people to choose public transport.
“A major rail hub at Severn Tunnel Junction would strengthen links between South Wales and the West of England while helping to reduce congestion on our roads, which would have a positive impact on those who live and work in the county.”
“The proposed access route would encourage more people to move from travelling by road to rail by creating a Severnside Parkway. It would also allow residents of Caldicot and Rogiet direct access to the motorway network, significantly reducing congestion at Chepstow’s High Beech Roundabout.”
Mark Hooper MS, Deputy Minister for Transport, said: “It was a pleasure to visit Severn Tunnel Junction to discuss future plans. Improving access to our rail network is central to our ambitions for a greener, more connected Wales, and schemes that encourage people to switch from car to rail have a vital part to play in that.
“I was particularly interested to hear how a new link to the M48 could support the development of a Severnside Parkway, reduce pressure on the M4 corridor, and ease congestion for communities in Caldicot and Rogiet. These are exactly the kinds of practical, sustainable solutions we are planning.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the council as this proposal is developed further.”
Cllr Catrin Maby, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment, added: “Improving access to high-quality public transport is essential if we are serious about tackling climate change. This scheme would help more people make the switch from car to rail, cutting emissions while providing a practical, convenient alternative. It is exactly the kind of investment needed to support sustainable growth and greener journeys for the future.”
