THE Welsh Government is developing proposals to turn the former Nant Helen surface mine and Onllwyn coal washery, at the head of the Dulais andTaweValleys, in to a new test track for new trains. It will be called a Global Centre of RailTesting Excellence.
Proposals for the Nant Helen surface mine site include a 6.9km electrified high-speed outer track,with testing speeds of up to 110mph;a 4.5km low-speed inner test track with a maximum speed of 40mph;and a dual platform station environment.
At the former Onllwyn washery site the plans are for research and development offices,training rooms,control centre, and staff facilities, along with a rolling stock maintenance shed and sidings.The centre would be connected tothe Neath and Brecon branch line.
TheWelsh Government has entered intoa JointVenture Agreement with Neath PortTalbot and Powys local authorities,and created a site master plan.