Plans for a new mainline train station at St Mellons in , with an integrated 900,000 sq ft business park, have been approved by the . More than two years since the scheme was called in by the administration as a project deemed a development of national significance, the decision to approve planning has been made by First Minister Eluned Morgan.
The project, which secured planning approval from nearly three years ago, was recommended for approval by a planning inspector from the Welsh Government at arm’s length Planning and Environment Decision Wales (PEDW) following two public hearings.
While not legally tied to this recommendation to approve, the First Minister said not to grant planning consent would be counter to her government's aim of building a stronger and greener Welsh economy
In her approval letter Ms Morgan says: “I have considered whether, having regard to the Welsh Ministers’ wellbeing duty, it would be reasonable to take a different decision. I note the alternative decision would be to refuse planning permission for the development. This would negatively impact on the objective to build an economy based on the principles of fair work, sustainability and the industries and services of the future and build a stronger, greener economy as we make maximum progress towards decarbonisation. The effect of this alternative decision on the other objectives would be neutral.
"Consequently, I consider that the decision to grant planning permission subject to conditions is a reasonable step in meeting the Welsh ministers’ well-being objectives.” Read the biggest stories in Wales first by
The company behind the project, Cardiff Parkway Development, is majority-owned by financial giant Investec. Other investors are the Roberts family with the Welsh Government having a minority 10% stake.
When first mooted the proposed four platform station had an indicative cost of £120m. Due to inflationary pressures and the protracted delay in the Welsh Government making a planning determination, that cost would have risen. Now planning has been secured the company will have to undertaken a new funding assessment.
Cardiff Parkway Developments has already acquired the necessary land on the south side of the scheme to allow the slewing of the existing lines to accommodate four platforms.
The original private sector funding model was based on Transport for Wales leasing the train station - offset against car parking income- to provide security for long-term private sector borrowing. If a financial gap is identified, it will be a matter for the Ƶ Government to provide a funding solution, as rail infrastructure is not a devolved matter.
Last month there was unanimous cross-party support amongst Cardiff councillors backing a motion for both the station and business park to be approved by the Welsh Government.
An assessment of the project from property advisory firm Savills, which was commissioned by the Cardiff Capital Region, concludes that it has the potential to have a hugely positive impact on the regional economy and overtime create around 6,000 new jobs.
Savills said business park element of the Cardiff Parkway project could provide an annual economic uplift of up to £265m to the Cardiff Capital Region and £5bn over a 20-year assessed period. It would also help Wales punch above its weight in attracting inward investment, according to independent research.
Engineering giant Rolls-Royce had already appraised the site, with excellent public transport links provided with a mainline train station, as a potential location for an investment that could create thousands of much needed high-skilled jobs. Rolls-Royce is a key supplier in the AƵUS multi-billion pound nuclear submarine contract with the Australian government.
The project team at Cardiff Parkway Developments said it will will now review the decision letter to consider the conditions and establish a programme for delivery.
Its chairman Nigel Roberts said: “We are delighted that the first minister has approved our planning application following an extremely thorough process. Cardiff Parkway will be a sustainable, well-connected business district with public transport and active travel at its heart. The scheme will now be able to bring opportunities to our local communities, the city region and the wider economy. I would particularly like to thank those residents in St Mellons and the surrounding areas for engaging positively throughout the process.
"We will work closely with local, Welsh and Ƶ stakeholders in this shared endeavour. Our ambition is to ensure that the scheme delivers on its commitments, including to improve local transport, deliver economic opportunities, and preserve, protect and enhance the local environment.”
Leader of Cardiff Council Huw Thomas, said: "I am delighted that Welsh Government has approved the Cardiff Parkway development, and am grateful to the First Minister for shouldering the decision-making on this project. This development is not just about a new railway station; it's about enhancing our city's future.
"Cardiff Parkway will significantly improve our transport infrastructure, leading to economic growth and job creation across Cardiff and the wider region. “With journey times between Cardiff and reduced to just seven minutes, more than 800,000 passengers a year could benefit once this is up and running.
This project will help tackle traffic congestion from the east of Cardiff providing a game changing public transport option for a part of the city which has suffered for far too long with connection issues. Additionally, sustainable transport options like cycle paths and walking routes will promote a greener, healthier lifestyle. Cardiff Council has been deeply involved in this project from the start. We endorsed it in 2022, recognizing its potential to deliver growth and improve public transport options.
"We have participated in consultations and planning hearings, addressing community concerns and advocating for the project's approval. Cardiff Parkway will be part of an investment zone, bringing additional benefits such as tax incentives and reduced regulations to attract businesses and investors. This will help create thousands of new jobs during construction and once the station is operational, boosting our local economy and improving residents' quality of life.
" This council is determined to build a future where Cardiff is a hub of progress and opportunity. I look forward to the positive impact this project will have on our communities and economy as we look to build a better connected Cardiff and Cardiff Capital Region."
