Cardiff Central Station set for £100m transformation as BAM and AtkinsRéalis begin major redesign

BAM has been awarded an £8 million contract to lead the design phase of the Cardiff Central Enhancements Programme (CCEP), a flagship infrastructure scheme that will modernise. 

Wales’ busiest railway station and improve journeys for millions of passengers each year.

The ambitious redevelopment forms part of Transport for Wales’ wider vision to create a more reliable, accessible and sustainable transport network across the country. Cardiff Central – a key gateway for the capital and an essential interchange for national and regional services – will undergo a comprehensive redesign to increase capacity, improve accessibility and deliver a high-quality passenger experience that reflects its role as the heart of Wales’ rail network.

To deliver this transformational programme, BAM has appointed AtkinsRéalis as multi-disciplinary design partner to deliver the detailed design including architectural, civil, structural and rail systems.  Together, the partners will produce detailed designs that balance heritage preservation with the needs of a modern transport hub.

The scheme will bring to life Transport for Wales’ vision for a modernised station and will deliver a wide range of benefits for passengers. Plans include redesigned station entrances to improve flow, upgraded subways and platforms to support future passenger numbers, and new waiting areas. The station will also see an expansion of retail and food outlets, creating a more vibrant, engaging environment for travellers.

Encouraging greener travel is a core part of the programme, with new cycle storage facilities to encourage sustainable travel.

BAM’s appointment marks a significant step towards delivery of the project, which will enhance regional connectivity and play a key role in Wales’ economic growth.

Alexia Course, Chief Commercial Officer at Transport for Wales, said: "Transport for Wales is transforming public transport and part of this investment is introducing brand-new trains and revamping our rail infrastructure and facilities.  

“It’s great to have BAM on board for the delivery of much needed enhancements to Cardiff Central station. Their knowledge and experience of delivering major station projects will be a key asset as we look towards the start of construction works next year.

“The approval of the full business case and the investment of up to £140 million from the Department for Transport, Cardiff Capital Region and the Welsh Government means we can deliver improvements to the station to make it fit for a capital city and sustain future growth, providing a better experience for our station customers.”

Alejandro Moreno, AtkinsRéalis Market Director – Rail & Transit, UK & Ireland, said: “This project is a cornerstone for improving connectivity across Wales and creating a world-class station that reflects Cardiff’s ambitions to build a stronger, fairer and greener city.

“Having led the design of complex projects including Cardiff’s Canal Quarter regeneration and Birmingham New Street, as well as regional transformations such as Haverfordwest’s new signature footbridge, AtkinsRéalis brings a wealth of experience to deliver a station that blends heritage preservation with an enhanced passenger experience. We look forward to continuing our work with Transport for Wales and collaborating with BAM to turn this vision into reality.”