The Global Centre of Rail Excellence (GCRE) - a train, rail infrastructure and technology testing facility will be located on the site of Nant Helen opencast mine in Onllwyn, which is currently operated by Celtic Energy.
The centre will provide a unique capability in the UK and Europe. It will support innovation in the UK and international rail industry by serving as a testbed for cutting-edge, green technologies, which will act as a driver for accelerated innovation in the rail industry.
The Welsh Government developed the idea for the centre and has engaged with experts from across the global rail industry. It is investing £50 million to support the delivery of the new facility.
A joint venture was established in 2019 between The Welsh Government and both Powys and Neath Port Talbot councils to support project development and delivery. The proposals are the result of collaborative working with partners and extensive engagement and consultation with stakeholders and local communities.
A land option deal has been completed for the sites at the Nant Helen surface mine and Onllwyn coal washery, which will see Celtic Energy gift all the land necessary for the project.
A formal planning application has been submitted.
Proposals for the Nant Helen surface mine site include:
- electrified high-speed outer rail testing track (6.9km) with testing speeds of up to 110mph
- electrified low-speed inner rail testing track (4.5km) with testing speeds of up to 40mph
- dual platform station environment
Proposals for the Onllwyn coal washery site include:
- research, development, education and training/conference centre
- an operations and control centre/office
- staff facilities
- rolling stock storage/sidings
- rolling stock maintenance facility
- 25kv overhead line equipment (OLE) infrastructure
Infrastructure will be made up of:
- access routes,
- staff car parking
- drainage
- lighting
- mobile and land-based communications ‘hyper-connectivity’
- CCTV
- perimeter/security fencing which may include sound control as required)
- Neath and Brecon branch line connection and signalling upgrade.
A new GCRE company will be established as the project transitions from government-led, supported by industry to industry-led, supported by government. Celtic Energy is the first commercial partner in the project.
For more information on the timetable of this project, visit https://gov.wales/global-centre-rail-excellence-wales
