View source for Arriva Trains Wales

{{Short description|British transport company that operated in Wales, United Kingdom}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2018}}
{{Use British English|date=February 2021}}
{{Infobox rail company
|name           = Arriva Trains Wales
|image          = Hugh llewelyn 175 003 (6453646265).jpg
|caption        = [[British Rail Class 175|Class 175 ''Coradia 1000'']] at Cardiff Central in 2009
|franchise      = [[Wales & Borders franchise|Wales & Borders]]<br />7 December 2003 –<br />13 October 2018
|logo_filename  = Arriva Trains Wales logo.svg
|logo_size      = 275px
|regions        = Wales
|abbr           = AW
|secregions     = [[North West England|North West]]<br />[[West Midlands (region)|West Midlands]]<br />[[South West England|South West]]
|fleet=125 units<br />3 locomotive hauled sets
|stationsop=247<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/OurCompany/ |title = Our Company |publisher = Arriva Trains Wales |access-date = 28 April 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170202150351/https://www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/OurCompany/ |archive-date = 2 February 2017 |url-status = dead|df = dmy-all}}</ref>
|length        = {{cvt|1623.8|km}}{{cn|date=April 2023}}
|parent_company = [[Arriva UK Trains]]
|website        = [https://web.archive.org/web/20181013031113/https://www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/ www.arrivatrains.co.uk]
|predecessor    = [[Wales and Borders]]
|successor      = [[KeolisAmey Wales]]}}

'''Arriva Trains Wales'''<ref>{{cite web |url = http://data.companieshouse.gov.uk/doc/company/04337645 |title = Arriva Trains Wales/Trenau Arriva Cymru Limited: company no. 4337645 |publisher = Companies House extract |access-date = 27 May 2022 |archive-date = 29 October 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131029205104/http://data.companieshouse.gov.uk/doc/company/04337645 |url-status = dead }}</ref> (ATW; {{langx|cy|Trenau Arriva Cymru}}) was a British [[train operating company]] owned by [[Arriva UK Trains]] that operated the [[Wales & Borders franchise]]. It ran urban and inter-urban passenger services to all railway stations in [[Wales]], including {{Stnlnk|Cardiff Central}}, {{Stnlnk|Cardiff Queen Street}}, {{Stnlnk|Newport}}, {{Stnlnk|Swansea}}, {{Stnlnk|Wrexham General}} and {{Stnlnk|Holyhead}}, as well as to certain stations in [[England]] such as {{Stnlnk|Hereford}}, {{Stnlnk|Shrewsbury}}, {{Stnlnk|Chester}}, [[Crewe railway station|Crewe]], {{Stnlnk|Manchester Piccadilly}} and {{Stnlnk|Birmingham New Street}}.

In August 2003, [[Arriva UK Trains]] was awarded the newly created Wales & Borders franchise by the [[Strategic Rail Authority]], with Arriva Trains Wales beginning operation during December 2003, taking over from [[Wales and Borders]]. Following the implementation of the [[Railways Act 2005]] and [[Transport (Wales) Act 2006]], responsibility for the franchise was devolved to the [[Welsh Government]], which worked closely with Arriva Trains Wales during its period of operations. Numerous service changes were made under the company's management; on 6 February 2008, the [[Ebbw Valley Railway]] was partially re-opened to passenger services for the first time in over 40 years. Another high-profile change during December of that year was the inauguration of the locomotive-hauled Holyhead to Cardiff [[Premier Service]].

In March 2010, Arriva Trains Wales' application to reinstate a direct Aberystwyth to [[Marylebone railway station|London Marylebone]] service was rejected by the [[Office of Rail & Road|Office of Rail Regulation]] due to concerns over its financial viability, as well as the potential severe revenue abstraction from other operators such as [[Wrexham & Shropshire]]. In July 2012, the [[Department for Transport]] announced that the Cardiff Valley Lines would be electrified, although this ambition would not be substantiated during Arriva Train Wales' franchise period. During the mid-2010s, as the franchise period was nearing its end, tenders were sought for its next operator; Arriva Trains Wales' publicly withdrew from the process in October 2017 despite having been shortlisted. On 23 May 2018, [[KeolisAmey Wales]] was selected as the winning bid. On 13 October 2018, Arriva Trains Wales' franchise came to an end, operations being transferred to successor operator KeolisAmey that same day.

==History==
During March 2000, the UK government announced its plans to create a separate [[Wales & Borders franchise]].<ref name=Select>{{cite web |url = https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200304/cmselect/cmwelaf/458/45807.htm |title = The Wales and Borders Franchise: House of Commons Select Committee on Welsh Affairs Third Report |publisher = [[Parliament]] |date = 17 March 2004 |access-date = 30 August 2017 |archive-date = 6 August 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170806181949/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200304/cmselect/cmwelaf/458/45807.htm |url-status = dead }}</ref> In October 2001, the two [[National Express]]-operated franchises, [[Valley Lines]] and [[Wales & West]], were reorganised, after which the new [[Wales & Borders]] franchise assumed responsibility for the majority of services in Wales as shown on its map.<ref>{{cite web |archive-url =  https://web.archive.org/web/20030614202259/http://www.walesandborderstrains.co.uk/uploads/documents/106.pdf |url = http://www.walesandborderstrains.co.uk/uploads/documents/106.pdf
|title = Route map |publisher = Wales & Borders |archive-date = 14 June 2003}}</ref> The services from [[Birmingham New Street railway station|Birmingham New Street]] to [[Chester railway station|Chester]], [[Cambrian Line|Aberystwyth, and Pwllheli]] operated by [[Central Trains]] were also transferred.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.walesandborderstrains.co.uk/ |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20011021194557/http://www.walesandborderstrains.co.uk/ |title = More than just a new name for Wales & West in Wales |publisher = Wales & Borders |archive-date = 21 October 2001}}</ref> In October 2002, a shortlist of [[Arriva UK Trains|Arriva]], [[Veolia Transport|Connex]]/[[GB Railways]], [[National Express]] and [[Serco-Abellio]] were invited to bid for the new franchise period.<ref>{{cite magazine |title= Four still in race for Wales & Borders | magazine = [[Rail Magazine]] |issue=446 |date= 16 October 2002 |page=12}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title= Dutch plan a Welsh invasion | magazine = [[The Railway Magazine]] |issue=1221 |date= January 2003 |page=6}}</ref>

On 1 August 2003, the [[Strategic Rail Authority]] awarded the new franchise to [[Arriva UK Trains]].<ref>{{cite press release |url = http://www.investegate.co.uk/article.aspx?id=200308010700462243O |title = SRA Announces Preferred Bidder for New Integrated Wales Franchise |publisher = Strategic Rail Authority |date = 1 August 2003 |access-date = 25 September 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160625065059/http://www.investegate.co.uk/article.aspx?id=200308010700462243O |archive-date = 25 June 2016 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title = Arriva to operate Wales & Borders |magazine = The Railway Magazine |issue = 1230 |date = October 2003 |page = 35}}</ref> The new franchise was for fifteen years, with performance reviews every five years; Arriva Trains Wales took over the services operated by [[Wales & Borders]] on 7 December 2003.<ref name="atocFranchise">{{cite web |url = http://www.atoc-comms.org/franchised-passenger-services-arriva-trains-wales.php |title = Passenger Franchise Information: Arriva Trains Wales |publisher = ATOC |year=2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080305051256/http://www.atoc-comms.org/franchised-passenger-services-arriva-trains-wales.php| archive-date = 5 March 2008 |url-status= dead}}</ref> The next five-yearly review period concluded on 31 March 2013.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://assets.dft.gov.uk/publications/rail-franchising-timetable/rail-franchising-timetable.pdf |title = Rail Franchising Timetable |publisher = Department for Transport |date = 1 July 2012 |access-date = 16 October 2012 |archive-date = 24 September 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120924220649/http://assets.dft.gov.uk/publications/rail-franchising-timetable/rail-franchising-timetable.pdf |url-status = dead }}</ref> On 28 September 2003, the services from [[Birmingham New Street railway station|Birmingham New Street]], [[Crewe railway station|Crewe]] and [[Manchester Piccadilly railway station|Manchester Piccadilly]] to [[Llandudno railway station|Llandudno]] and [[Holyhead railway station|Holyhead]], as well as those between [[Borderlands Line|Bidston and Wrexham Central]] and between [[Conwy Valley Line|Llandudno and Blaenau Ffestiniog]], operated by [[First North Western]], were transferred to the new Wales & Borders franchise.<ref name=Select/><ref>{{cite magazine |title = First North Western in split |magazine = [[The Railway Magazine]] |issue = 1202 |date = June 2001 |page = 11}}</ref>

As a result of the [[Railways Act 2005]] and the [[Transport (Wales) Act 2006]], responsibility for the franchise was later devolved to the [[Welsh Government]].<ref>{{cite web |url = http://wales.gov.uk/topics/transport/rail/?lang=en |publisher = Welsh Government |title = Transport: Rail |date = 3 October 2012 |access-date = 24 October 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120630054029/http://wales.gov.uk/topics/transport/rail/?lang=en |archive-date = 30 June 2012 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref> Subsequently, the Welsh Government closely coordinated with Arriva Trains Wales in the management and development of the railway network within Wales. Changes included the introduction of direct services between [[North Wales|North]] and [[South Wales]],<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.nwrail.org.uk/nw0511e.htm |title = North Wales Railway Notice Board – That new Arriva Timetable |last = Hulme |first = Chris |access-date = 26 March 2008 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071014014328/http://www.nwrail.org.uk/nw0511e.htm |archive-date = 14 October 2007 }}</ref> and the reintroduction of passenger services on previously freight-only portions of the [[Vale of Glamorgan Line]] and [[Ebbw Vale Line]].

At its height, ATW operated over a route length of 1691&nbsp;km, with 253 [[diesel multiple unit]] (DMU) cars and 22 locomotive-hauled passenger carriages. Its busiest Welsh stations were {{Stnlnk|Cardiff Central}}, {{Stnlnk|Cardiff Queen Street}} and {{Stnlnk|Newport}} in South Wales, and {{Stnlnk|Bangor (Gwynedd)}} and {{Stnlnk|Wrexham General}} in North Wales.{{Citation needed|date=October 2019}}

ATW operated almost all services in Wales, with the exception of:
* {{stnlnk|Pembroke Dock}}/{{stnlnk|Carmarthen}}/{{stnlnk|Swansea}}/{{stnlnk|Cardiff Central}} to [[Paddington railway station|London Paddington]] ([[Great Western Railway (train operating company)|Great Western Railway]])
* Cardiff Central to {{stnlnk|Portsmouth Harbour}} or {{stnlnk|Taunton}} (Great Western Railway)
* Cardiff Central to {{stnlnk|Nottingham}} or {{stnlnk|Manchester Piccadilly}} ([[CrossCountry]])
* {{stnlnk|Holyhead}}/[[Bangor (Gwynedd) railway station|Bangor]]/[[Wrexham General railway station|Wrexham General]] to [[Euston railway station|London Euston]] ([[Virgin Trains West Coast]])
* various heritage railways

==Performance==
[[File:ATW passenger numbers.png|thumb|300px|ATW passenger numbers from 2011 to 2018.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/displayreport/report/html/1c4a75a8-bebc-4b64-91b6-655ba9888189%7Ctitle=ORR |title = ATW Key stats |access-date=20 September 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170921045539/https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/displayreport/report/html/1c4a75a8-bebc-4b64-91b6-655ba9888189%7Ctitle=ORR |archive-date = 21 September 2017 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/displayreport/report/html/2b2e2c38-c822-4e1f-9fb4-b049b3c13899 |title = ORR Passenger rail usage by TOC |access-date = 20 September 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170921045645/https://dataportal.orr.gov.uk/displayreport/report/html/2b2e2c38-c822-4e1f-9fb4-b049b3c13899 |archive-date = 21 September 2017 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref>]]
In October 2006, ATW was ranked seventh best (out of 21 companies) with an above average 89.9% of trains 'on time' according to [[Network Rail]] statistics.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.networkrail.co.uk/about/performance/ |title = Public Performance Measure |publisher = Network Rail |access-date = 4 May 2013 |archive-date = 4 December 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121204023404/http://www.networkrail.co.uk/about/performance/ |url-status = dead }}</ref> The latest figures released by NR (Network Rail) rate punctuality ([[Public Performance Measure]]) at 96.1% for period 7 of the 2013/14 financial year.<ref name="PerfP7">{{cite web |title = Rail performance results period 7 |url =  http://www.networkrail.co.uk/about/performance/ |publisher = Network Rail |access-date = 26 December 2012 |archive-url =  https://web.archive.org/web/20121204023404/http://www.networkrail.co.uk/about/performance/ |archive-date = 4 December 2012 |url-status = dead |df = dmy-all }}</ref> The MAA (Monthly Annual Average) figure for the 366 days up to 12 October 2013 is currently at 93.9%.<ref name="PerfP7"/>

In September 2017, a review on the conditions during a regular peak commute was published by 'Stu's Reviews'. This review was publicised through several of the national news networks, including [[Wales Online]],<ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/shocking-common-scenes-filmed-one-13645913 |title = The shocking but all too common scenes filmed on one Welsh train journey |work = Wales Online |date = September 2017 |access-date = 27 January 2018 |archive-date = 28 January 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180128021253/https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/shocking-common-scenes-filmed-one-13645913 |url-status = dead }}</ref> and [[BBC Wales]].<ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-41361701 |title = Arriva Trains Wales reports 'huge rise' in commuters |work = BBC News |date = September 2017 |access-date = 20 June 2018 |archive-date = 28 September 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180928120944/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-41361701 |url-status = dead }}</ref>

==Welsh-language services==
[[File:Llandudno Junction bilingual station sign.jpg|thumb|A bilingual station sign]]
The [[Welsh Language Act 1993]] requires all public bodies to provide services to the public through the medium of Welsh as well as English. As a private company and not a public body, Arriva Trains Wales was not legally required to provide service in Welsh,<ref name="icwales">{{cite news |url = http://icwales.icnetwork.co.uk/news/wales-news/tm_objectid=15040160&method=full&siteid=50082-name_page.html |work = Western Mail |title = Train firm's web site hits the buffers over Welsh language |location = Cardiff |last = Clark |first = Rhodri |date = 5 January 2005 |access-date = 15 April 2008 }}</ref> but it did conduct some business in Welsh. All stations previously run by Arriva Trains Wales where the Welsh and English names differed had both names displayed, with a few minor omissions.<ref name="icwales"/> Arriva did not display Welsh names in the English stations which it managed, such as Chester ({{langx|cy|Caer}}), Shrewsbury ({{langx|cy|Amwythig}}), or Hereford ({{langx|cy|Henffordd}}), but included the Welsh names in its now discontinued printed timetables and other publicity material.<ref name="herefordtimes">{{cite news |url = http://www.herefordtimes.com/archive/2004/01/08/Herefordshire+Archive/5669169.Welsh_signs_would_be_on_wrong_track/ |archive-url = https://archive.today/20120418232224/http://www.herefordtimes.com/archive/2004/01/08/Herefordshire+Archive/5669169.Welsh_signs_would_be_on_wrong_track/ |url-status = dead |archive-date = 18 April 2012 |work = Hereford Times |title = Welsh signs would be on wrong track |date = 8 January 2004 |access-date = 20 October 2013 }}</ref> There were bilingual signs at Hereford, for example, warning against trespassing on the railway.

Arriva Trains Wales introduced bilingual display screens and announcements in at least 46 stations.<ref name="arrivaphone">{{cite press release |url = http://www.arriva.co.uk/media_centre/press_releases/2004/june/2004-06-10.aspx?sc_lang=en |title = Rail company launches Welsh language phone line |publisher = Arriva Trains Wales |date = 10 June 2004 |access-date = 23 June 2013 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131025154831/http://www.arriva.co.uk/media_centre/press_releases/2004/june/2004-06-10.aspx?sc_lang=en | archive-date = 25 October 2013 | url-status = dead}}</ref>

In 2004, ATW introduced a Welsh-language telephone line.<ref name="arrivaphone"/> Its website was named the "Best Website of The Year in the Technology Wales Awards 2004".<ref name="imaginet">{{cite press release |url = http://www.imaginet.co.uk/news/awards/arriva-trains-wales-secures-top-internet-award/ |publisher = Imaginet |title = Arriva Trains Wales secures top internet communications award |date = 28 May 2004 |access-date = 20 October 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150924033755/http://www.imaginet.co.uk/news/awards/arriva-trains-wales-secures-top-internet-award/ |archive-date = 24 September 2015 |url-status = dead |df = dmy-all }}</ref>

==Routes==

===North Wales===
Services along the [[North Wales Coast Line]] terminated at {{stnlnk|Holyhead}} and {{stnlnk|Llandudno}}. Llandudno services ran every hour to [[Manchester Piccadilly railway station|Manchester Piccadilly]] via {{stnlnk|Chester}} and {{stnlnk|Warrington Bank Quay}}. Holyhead services ran every hour, to {{stnlnk|Shrewsbury}} via Chester and {{stnlnk|Wrexham General}}, then alternately to {{stnlnk|Birmingham International}} or {{stnlnk|Cardiff Central}}. Request stations west of Llandudno Junction ([[Conwy railway station|Conwy]], {{stnlnk|Penmaenmawr}}, {{stnlnk|Llanfairfechan}}, {{stnlnk|Llanfairpwll}}, {{stnlnk|Bodorgan}}, {{stnlnk|Ty Croes}}, {{stnlnk|Rhosneigr}} and {{stnlnk|Valley}}) were generally served by alternate trains. The [[Conwy Valley Line]] were operated by a single train running between Llandudno and {{stnlnk|Blaenau Ffestiniog}}, with six return journeys a day. The private [[Ffestiniog Railway]] operated connecting services between Blaenau Ffestiniog and Minffordd near [[Porthmadog]].

Services on the [[Borderlands Line]] ran from {{stnlnk|Wrexham Central}} to {{stnlnk|Bidston}} on the [[Wirral Peninsula]], crossing the North Wales Coast Line at {{stnlnk|Shotton}}. This line connected with main-line services at [[Wrexham General railway station|Wrexham General]]; with [[North Wales Coast line]] services at Shotton; and with electrified lines operated by [[Merseyrail]] at Bidston. It may be converted to electric operation in the future.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.taith.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Appendices_2_Feb_09.pdf |title = Provisional North Wales Regional Transport Plan (Appendix 2- Railway Development in North Wales |access-date = 20 October 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150924112852/http://www.taith.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Appendices_2_Feb_09.pdf |archive-date = 24 September 2015 |url-status = dead |df = dmy-all}}</ref><ref name="NetworkRUSE">{{cite web |url = http://www.networkrail.co.uk/networkrus_electrification.pdf |title = Network RUS Electrification |date = October 2009 |access-date = 20 October 2013 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141012195531/http://www.networkrail.co.uk/networkrus_electrification.pdf |archive-date = 12 October 2014 |df = dmy-all }}</ref>

===Mid Wales===
[[Cambrian Line]] services consisted of trains from {{stnlnk|Aberystwyth}} to {{stnlnk|Shrewsbury}}, [[Birmingham New Street railway station|Birmingham New Street]] and {{stnlnk|Birmingham International}} every two hours. Services from {{stnlnk|Pwllheli}} joined this train at {{stnlnk|Machynlleth}}. Services were operated exclusively by [[British Rail Class 158|Class 158 ''Express Sprinters'']], as they were the only units fitted with the necessary equipment for the [[ERTMS]] system used on the line.<ref name=ERTMS>{{cite news |url = http://www.europeanrailwayreview.com/rail-industry-news/pioneering-rail-technology-gets-tested-in-wales |work = European Railway Review |title = ERTMS gets tested in Wales |access-date = 16 September 2010 |date = 15 February 2010}}</ref>

The single-track nature of this line, coupled with the busy terminus at Birmingham New Street, meant that delays had in some cases resulted in partial cancellation of services on this line. Beginning December 2008, most services had been extended to the less busy Birmingham International station, giving more flexibility in making up any lost time; this was also intended to help international students at [[Aberystwyth University]] gain easier access to an airport.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.saveseverntunnel.co.uk/timetable-08/Arriva%20Dec%2008%20-%20May%202009%20Draft%20Timetable%20Major%20Changes%20Poster%20-%20Dec%202008_3.pdf |title = 2008 timetable alteration summary |publisher = saveseverntunnel.co.uk |access-date = 7 July 2008 |archive-date = 7 January 2009 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090107054004/http://www.saveseverntunnel.co.uk/timetable-08/Arriva%20Dec%2008%20-%20May%202009%20Draft%20Timetable%20Major%20Changes%20Poster%20-%20Dec%202008_3.pdf |url-status = dead }}.</ref> The [[Heart of Wales Line]] had services from {{stnlnk|Swansea}} to Shrewsbury via {{stnlnk|Llanelli}} and {{stnlnk|Llandrindod}} four or five times a day. It was marketed by Arriva Trains Wales as a scenic, rural line, with special rover tickets available.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/HeartofWales/ |title = The Heart of Wales Line |publisher = Arriva Trains Wales |access-date = 20 October 2013 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131021102143/http://www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/HeartofWales/ |archive-date = 21 October 2013  }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=4922 |title = Discover Wales and the Borders by Train – Your Guide to Arriva Trains Wales' Rovers and Rangers |publisher = Arriva Trains Wales |access-date = 25 August 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110728133217/http://www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=4922 |archive-date = 28 July 2011 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref>

===South Wales===
ATW operated an hourly long-distance service from {{stnlnk|Carmarthen}} to [[Manchester Piccadilly railway station|Manchester Piccadilly]] via {{stnlnk|Cardiff Central}} and the [[Welsh Marches Line]]. Some off-peak services terminated at or originated from Cardiff Central, and continued to or came from {{stnlnk|Milford Haven}} every two hours. There was also one service per day from Fishguard Harbour to Manchester Piccadilly, but not in the other direction. Some services operated to Tenby, Pembroke Dock, Carmarthen and Maesteg from Manchester Piccadilly.

ATW also operated a service every two hours from Cardiff Central to {{stnlnk|Holyhead}} via {{stnlnk|Wrexham General}}, other branches of the [[West Wales Line]] as served by trains from Swansea and Cardiff Central. Trains operated a shuttle service between Swansea and Cardiff Central (known as [[Swanline]]), calling at more minor stations than the [[Great Western Railway (train operating company)|Great Western Railway]] InterCity services did.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.localgov.co.uk/index.cfm?method=news.detail&id=20828 |title = Angry rail firm blames cuts in service on Welsh councils | work= LocalGov|access-date = 11 April 2011 |url-status = dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722194935/http://www.localgov.co.uk/index.cfm?method=news.detail&id=20828 |archive-date = 22 July 2011 |df = dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.networkrail.co.uk/browse%20documents/rus%20documents/route%20utilisation%20strategies/wales/wales%20rus%20-%20summary%20&%20status%20of%20recommendations.pdf |title = Route Utilisation Strategies - Wales |publisher = Network Rail |date =  }}{{Dead link|date=December 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

ATW also operated the Heart of Wales line between Shrewsbury and Swansea via {{stnlnk|Llandrindod}}, with four trains per day in each direction. Special trains extending into South East Wales operated to [[Builth Road railway station|Builth Road]] during the [[Royal Welsh Show]] annually in July.<ref>{{cite news |url = https://walesonline.trem.media/news/wales-news/extra-trains-put-royal-welsh-2235044.amp |title = Extra trains to be put on for Royal Welsh |work = Wales Online |date = 30 March 2013 }}{{Dead link|date=July 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.countytimes.co.uk/news/15831623.special-train-running-from-cardiff-to-the-royal-welsh-show/ |title = Special train running from Cardiff to the Royal Welsh Show |work = Powys County Times|date = 10 July 2010}}</ref>

===Cardiff and Valleys===
{{See also|Rail transport in Cardiff|List of Valley Lines stations
}}
{{multiple image
| align     = right
| direction = vertical
| header    =
| width     = 200

| image1    = 142077 Penarth.JPG
| alt1      = Arriva Trains Wales refurbished [[British Rail Class 142|142077]] at {{Stnlnk|Penarth}}
| caption1  = Arriva Trains Wales [[British Rail Class 142|142077]] at {{Stnlnk|Penarth}}

| image2    = 142069 C Interior.JPG
| alt2      = The refurbished interior of an Arriva Trains Wales Class 142
| caption2  = The interior of an Arriva Trains Wales Class 142
}}
{{multiple image
| align     = right
| direction = vertical
| header    =
| width     = 200

| image1    = 150258 C Cardiff Queen Street.JPG
| alt1      = Arriva Trains Wales refurbished [[British Rail Class 150|150258]] at {{Stnlnk|Cardiff Queen Street}}
| caption1  = Arriva Trains Wales [[British Rail Class 150|150258]] at {{Stnlnk|Cardiff Queen Street}}

| image2    = 150283 C X Interior.JPG
| alt2      = The refurbished interior of an Arriva Trains Wales Class 150
| caption2  =The interior of an Arriva Trains Wales Class 150
}}

The [[Valley Lines]] network, previously operated as a separate franchise, was a collection of [[Urban rail in the United Kingdom|urban lines]] in Cardiff and the surrounding area, including the [[South Wales Valleys]] and the [[Vale of Glamorgan]]. Arriva Trains Wales also operated a service from {{stnlnk|Maesteg}} to {{stnlnk|Cheltenham Spa}}. Stations in the valleys north of Cardiff experienced strong passenger growth, as a result of which there was a new half-hourly service launched ([[Pontypridd]]-[[Treherbert]], [[Abercynon]]-[[Aberdare]], [[Abercynon]]-[[Merthyr Tydfil]] and in the future [[Bargoed]] to [[Rhymney]]). Service frequency growth at the fringes was a significant problem because of often lengthy single-track sections. Between the larger towns and Cardiff, these services combined to provide at least one train every 15 minutes, with six trains previously ran per hour between [[Pontypridd railway station|Pontypridd]] and Cardiff, and four trains per hour between Bargoed and Cardiff. Stations on the Treherbert and Rhymney branch lines were lengthened to accommodate six-car trains to cope with future growth demand for commuting into and out of the capital.

On 6 February 2008, the [[Ebbw Valley Railway]] was partially re-opened to passenger services for the first time in over 40 years. It provided an hourly service from [[Ebbw Vale Town railway station]] (opened 17 May 2015) to Cardiff Central calling at [[Ebbw Vale Parkway railway station|Ebbw Vale Parkway]], {{stnlnk|Llanhilleth}}, [[Newbridge railway station (Wales)|Newbridge]], {{stnlnk|Crosskeys}}, {{stnlnk|Risca and Pontymister}}, {{stnlnk|Rogerstone}}, Pye Corner, and Cardiff Central. One year after opening, the line had carried 573,442 passengers, beating all targets set by the Welsh Assembly Government. Saturday trains ran as four-car formations instead of the standard two. Extra carriages were also added during school holidays when demand was high.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/4113478.Ebbw_Valley_rail_link_marks_first_successful_year/ |title = Ebbw Valley rail link marks first successful year |date = 10 February 2009 |access-date = 24 March 2009 |work = South Wales Argus |location = Newport |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090213213118/http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/4113478.Ebbw_Valley_rail_link_marks_first_successful_year/| archive-date = 13 February 2009 | url-status = live}}</ref> Possible developments that never saw the light of day also included restoring the service between Ebbw Vale and Newport; before Arriva discontinued operations, the proposal awaited Network Rail and Welsh Government approval. If it has been implemented, it would have provided an hourly service between [[Newport, Wales|Newport]] and [[Ebbw Vale]]. Due to the end of Arriva Train Wales' operations, any further plans will now be implemented under TFW.<ref name="RMT 1">{{cite web |url = http://www.rmtbristol.org.uk/2006/08/ebbw_valenewport_rail_link_put.html |title = Ebbw Vale-Newport rail link put back into next decade (from National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers) |access-date = 11 August 2010 |date = 12 August 2006 |first = Martin |last = Shipton |publisher = [[Western Mail (Wales)|Western Mail]] |work = [[National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers]] website |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720104116/http://www.rmtbristol.org.uk/2006/08/ebbw_valenewport_rail_link_put.html |archive-date = 20 July 2011 |url-status = dead |df = dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-10690944 |work = BBC News |title = Ebbw Vale to Newport rail decision 'in 2011' |access-date = 20 July 2010 |date = 20 July 2010}}</ref>

In July 2012, the [[Department for Transport]] announced that the Cardiff Valley Lines would be electrified, although no timescale has been given. This will entail replacement of the life-expired ''Pacer'' railbuses by new or cascaded stock.<ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-18828866 |title = Rail electrification to Swansea and south Wales valleys |work = BBC News |date = 16 July 2012 |access-date = 20 June 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120718235600/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-18828866 |archive-date = 18 July 2012 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all}}</ref> This project did not emerge within the Arriva Trains Wales era, and shall now occur under the auspices of successor operator TFW..<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.networkrail.co.uk/running-the-railway/our-routes/wales/cardiff-and-valleys/ |title = Cardiff And Valleys Station Upgrades |website = Network Rail |date = 16 May 2018 |access-date = 16 May 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180517010051/https://www.networkrail.co.uk/running-the-railway/our-routes/wales/cardiff-and-valleys/ |archive-date = 17 May 2018 |url-status = dead}}</ref>

===Welsh Marches and Border===
Services between {{stnlnk|Chester}} and [[Newport High Street railway station|Newport]] formed part of other ATW services already mentioned, such as {{stnlnk|Holyhead}} to {{stnlnk|Cardiff Central}}, or {{stnlnk|Milford Haven}} to [[Manchester Piccadilly railway station|Manchester Piccadilly]]. Coming north, after calling at {{stnlnk|Shrewsbury}} (for connections to Mid-Wales), trains for North Wales go to {{stnlnk|Chester}} via [[Wrexham General railway station|Wrexham General]], and trains for Manchester go to {{stnlnk|Crewe}}.

===Premier Service===
{{Main|Premier Service}}
A weekday Premier Service between Holyhead and Cardiff was introduced on 15 December 2008. This was run under contract to the [[Welsh Government]].<ref name="WO91466"/> [[Wrexham & Shropshire]]<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/trains-carry-true-taste-wales-2185681 |title = Trains carry true taste of Wales |work = Western Mail |location = Cardiff |date = 26 April 2008 |last = Clark |first = Rhodri |access-date = 20 October 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151018112906/http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/trains-carry-true-taste-wales-2185681 |archive-date = 18 October 2015 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref> and [[Grand Central (train operating company)|Grand Central]]<ref name="WO91466">{{cite news |url = http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/cost-subsidised-rail-service-secret-2134970 |title = Cost of subsidised rail service a secret |work = Western Mail |location = Cardiff  |last = Clark |first = Rhodri |date = 15 December 2008 |access-date = 20 October 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151018112906/http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/cost-subsidised-rail-service-secret-2134970 |archive-date = 18 October 2015 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref> expressed an interest in operating the service, but the contract was awarded to Arriva Trains Wales.<ref name="WO91466"/> At the time of the launch, it was known as ''Y Gerallt Gymro'' ([[Gerald of Wales]]),<ref name="WO91466"/> it was subsequently named as the ''Premier Service''.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/premierservice |title = North-South Wales Premier Service |publisher = Arriva Trains Wales |access-date = 20 October 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131020053751/http://www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/PremierService/ |archive-date = 20 October 2013 |url-status = dead |df = dmy-all }}</ref>

The Premium Service departed Holyhead at 05:34, returning from Cardiff departing at 17:16. It featured first-class accommodation and a full dining car with a travelling chef. Normal standard-class fares were valid on the train. First class attracted a supplement and included a complementary breakfast on the morning service and a three-course meal on the evening service. This was the only ATW service to offer first-class accommodation.{{citation needed|date=February 2017}} It originally ran via [[Crewe railway station|Crewe]] but, in September 2012, the service was rerouted via [[Wrexham General railway station|Wrexham General]], which required the train to change direction at [[Chester railway station|Chester]] in addition to having its evening departure moved from 16:15.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.nwrail.org.uk/nw1209d.htm |title = All Change for the Premier Service |publisher = North Wales Coast Railway Notice Board |date = 20 September 2012 |access-date = 26 September 2012 |archive-date = 30 October 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121030190718/http://www.nwrail.org.uk/nw1209d.htm |url-status = dead }}</ref>

In December 2014, the Premier Service was rebranded as the ''Business Class Service'' in an move by Arriva Trains Wales to promote the service and specifically appeal to those travelling to and from Cardiff to work. Ticket prices remained the same and were still sold as first class, and the restaurant service remains, although tablecloths and antimacassars were removed to promote a more work-like environment.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/first-class-retained-controversial-north-8214173 |title = First class to be retained on controversial North to South Wales train after U-turn |work = Daily Post |access-date = 24 January 2016 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160131021615/http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/first-class-retained-controversial-north-8214173 |archive-date = 31 January 2016 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref>

===Special services===
For special events, such as football or rugby matches, ATW commonly operated additional services to the venue. Wales & Borders had arranged in the past a stopping service to {{stnlnk|Edinburgh Waverley}}. Numerous other services have been operated. ATW usually operated shuttle services to Newport on match days. When rugby international matches are held at the [[Millennium Stadium]], ATW often ran an extra Holyhead to Cardiff service using the ''[[Premier Service]]'' rolling stock.{{citation needed|date=July 2014}}
In April 2015, ATW were highly criticised and issued an apology for their continual poor performance when dealing with the Judgement Day rugby matches at the Millennium Stadium.  Passengers were left queuing for hours due to the lack of services and lack of carriages available, some had to abandon their journeys for other means such as taxi and van hire. A spokesman for the company said “I want to assure all customers that every single train in Wales was out [on Saturday].” He added that the event differed to international rugby events, because the majority of those travelling to the matches travelled from south and south west Wales, placing huge pressure on specific routes.<ref>{{cite news |title=Train company apologises after rugby fans left fuming over Judgement Day services |work=Wales Online |url=http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/train-company-apologises-after-rugby-9122035 |url-status=live |access-date=27 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150427170121/http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/train-company-apologises-after-rugby-9122035 |archive-date=27 April 2015 |df=dmy-all}}</ref>

===Former services===
Arriva Trains Wales used to operate services from Manchester Piccadilly, Pembroke Dock, Carmarthen and Swansea to London Waterloo, Brighton, Portsmouth Harbour, Plymouth and Penzance via Cardiff, Bristol and Westbury. Services south of Cardiff are operated by [[Great Western Railway (train operating company)|Great Western Railway]], while the [[Bristol Temple Meads railway station|Bristol Temple Meads]] to [[London Waterloo railway station|London Waterloo]] services are operated by [[South Western Railway (train operating company)|South Western Railway]]

===Rejected services===
During late 2009, ATW filed an application to reinstate a direct Aberystwyth to [[Marylebone railway station|London Marylebone]] service, serving all stations to Birmingham International and additionally calling at [[Leamington Spa railway station|Leamington Spa]] and [[Bicester North railway station|Bicester North]].<ref>{{cite magazine |url = http://www.railtalkmagazine.co.uk/magazine/issue28.pdf |title = Arriva Trains Wales Announces Plans for Direct Aberystwyth – London Services |access-date = 24 October 2012 |magazine = Railtalk Magazine |page = 50 |issue = 28|date = January 2009}}</ref> As proposed, two off-peak trains would have operated each day, while a further service would have been added on Saturdays in high summer. Rolling stock would have been [[British Rail Class 158|Class 158]] ''Sprinters''.

There were concerns voiced that, if ATW were granted this service, it would push Wrexham General to London Marylebone operator [[Wrexham & Shropshire]] out of business; Wrexham & Shropshire's Managing Director, Andy Hamilton, stated: "We believe that this proposal – if approved – would push the date of profitability of WSMR by at least a year. As a result of this our owning group would be unable to sustain additional and continuing losses and the WSMR service would cease to exist."<ref>{{cite magazine |title= DB Regio to cease funding WSMR if Arriva runs in to London | magazine = [[Rail Magazine]] |issue=630 |date= 4 November 2009 |page= |location=Peterborough}}</ref>{{Page needed|date=May 2023}} In March 2010, it was announced that the application has been rejected by the [[Office of Rail & Road|Office of Rail Regulation]] due to concerns about the financial viability of the service and the potentially high level of revenue abstraction caused to other operators.<ref>{{cite news |title = Aberystwyth to London direct rail route rejected |url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/mid_/8543836.stm |work = BBC News |date = 1 March 2010 |access-date = 1 March 2010 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100304175140/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/mid_/8543836.stm |archive-date = 4 March 2010 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref> Wrexham & Shropshire ceased to operate roughly one year later.<ref name="bbc20110126">{{cite news |url= https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-12284468 |title= Wrexham-Shropshire-London direct rail link to end |work = BBC News |date = 26 January 2011 |access-date = 20 June 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160629142859/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-12284468 |archive-date = 29 June 2016 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref>

==Stations served==
===Major stations in Wales===
{{See also|List of railway stations in Wales}}
{{Columns-list|colwidth=15em|
* {{stnlnk|Cardiff Central}}
* {{stnlnk|Cardiff Queen Street}}
* {{stnlnk|Newport}}
* {{stnlnk|Bridgend}}
* {{stnlnk|Port Talbot Parkway}}
* {{stnlnk|Wrexham General}}
* {{stnlnk|Carmarthen}}
* {{stnlnk|Aberystwyth}}
* {{stnlnk|Colwyn Bay}}
* {{stnlnk|Rhyl}}
* {{stnlnk|Flint}}
* {{stnlnk|Shotton}}
* {{stnlnk|Holyhead}}
* {{stnlnk|Bangor (Gwynedd)}}
* {{stnlnk|Llandudno Junction}}
* {{stnlnk|Llandudno}}
* {{stnlnk|Maesteg}}
* {{stnlnk|Swansea}}
}}

===Stations in England===

====Managed by Arriva Trains Wales====
{{Columns-list|colwidth=15em|
* {{stnlnk|Broome}}
* {{stnlnk|Bucknell}}
* {{stnlnk|Chester}}
* {{stnlnk|Church Stretton}}
* {{stnlnk|Craven Arms}}
* {{stnlnk|Frodsham}}
* {{stnlnk|Gobowen}}
* {{stnlnk|Helsby}}
* {{stnlnk|Heswall}}
* {{stnlnk|Hereford}}
* {{stnlnk|Hopton Heath}}
* {{stnlnk|Knighton}}<ref>Geographically on the English side of the Border</ref>
* {{stnlnk|Leominster}}
* {{stnlnk|Lydney}}
* {{stnlnk|Ludlow}}
* {{stnlnk|Nantwich}}
* {{stnlnk|Neston}}
* {{stnlnk|Prees}}
* {{stnlnk|Runcorn East}}
* {{stnlnk|Shrewsbury}}
* {{stnlnk|Upton}}
* {{stnlnk|Wem}}
* [[Whitchurch railway station (Shropshire)|Whitchurch]]
* {{stnlnk|Wrenbury}}
* {{stnlnk|Yorton}}
}}

====Managed by other companies====
{{Columns-list|colwidth=25em|
* {{stnlnk|Birmingham International}} (Virgin Trains)
* [[Birmingham New Street railway station|Birmingham New Street]] (Network Rail)
* [[Crewe railway station|Crewe]] (Virgin Trains)
* [[Earlestown railway station|Earlestown]] (Northern)
* [[East Didsbury railway station|East Didsbury]] (Northern)
* [[Newton-le-Willows railway station|Newton-le-Willows]] (Northern)
* [[Manchester Airport railway station|Manchester Airport]] (TransPennine Express)
* [[Manchester Piccadilly railway station|Manchester Piccadilly]] (Network Rail)
* {{stnlnk|Manchester Oxford Road}} (Northern)
* {{stnlnk|Stockport}} (Virgin Trains)
* {{stnlnk|Telford Central}} (West Midlands Railway)
* [[Warrington Bank Quay railway station|Warrington Bank Quay]] (Virgin Trains)
* {{stnlnk|Wilmslow}} (Northern)
* {{stnlnk|Wolverhampton}} (West Midlands Railway)
* {{stnlnk|Stafford}} (Virgin Trains)
* {{stnlnk|Bidston}} (Merseyrail)
* {{stnlnk|Gloucester}} (Great Western Railway)
* {{stnlnk|Cheltenham Spa}} (Great Western Railway)
}}

==Rolling stock==
[[File:57314 Crewe (1).jpg|thumb|[[British Rail Class 57|57314]] at [[Crewe railway station|Crewe]] in March 2009]]
[[File:Alstom General Motors Class 67 No 67003 (7786994576).jpg|thumb|[[British Rail Class 67|67003]] at [[Holyhead railway station|Holyhead]] in August 2012]]
{{update section|date=December 2016}}
Arriva Trains Wales services were exclusively operated by diesel trains. This was largely due to there being no electrified railway lines in Wales at the time of the franchise. Arriva Trains Wales operated a fleet of 125 [[diesel multiple units]]. It also leased three locomotive-haul units for express services between [[Holyhead]] and [[Cardiff]], and had occasionally used hired-in locomotives to run extra services for sporting events.

ATW inherited a fleet of [[British Rail Class 142|Class 142]], [[British Rail Class 143|143]], [[British Rail Class 150|150]], [[British Rail Class 153|153]], [[British Rail Class 158|158]] and [[British Rail Class 175|175s]] from [[Wales & Borders]]. The Class 175s were a common-user fleet, with 11 required by [[First TransPennine Express]] each day.

In the early years of the franchise, ATW operated locomotive-hauled services using [[British Rail Mark 2|Mark 2]] carriages on services from [[Cardiff Central railway station|Cardiff Central]] to [[Rhymney railway station|Rhymney]] and [[Fishguard Harbour railway station|Fishguard Harbour]] hauled by [[DB Cargo UK|English Welsh & Scottish]] [[British Rail Class 37|Class 37s]] and FiftyFund [[British Rail Class 50|Class 50s]], and from [[Crewe railway station|Crewe]] and [[Manchester Piccadilly railway station|Manchester Piccadilly]] to [[Holyhead railway station|Holyhead]] hauled by [[Freightliner Group|Freightliner]] [[British Rail Class 47|Class 47s]] and [[Virgin Trains]] [[British Rail Class 57|Class 57s]].<ref>{{Cite web |url = http://www.rail37.com/Monthly/Pagelist_Monthlycom.html |title = Rail 37 Galleries |access-date = 16 October 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131020203910/http://www.rail37.com/Monthly/Pagelist_Monthlycom.html |archive-date = 20 October 2013 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref> ATW built up a fleet of 20 [[British Rail Mark 2|Mark 2]] carriages to operate these; all had been withdrawn by 2007, most of them being stored at [[Long Marston, Warwickshire|Long Marston]].<ref>{{cite magazine |title= | magazine = [[Rail Magazine]] |issue=562 |date= 28 March 2007 |page=45|location=Peterborough}}</ref>{{Full citation needed|date=May 2023}}<!-----INADEQUATE REFERENCE: needs title of article---->

Following the delivery of new stock to [[First TransPennine Express]] in 2006, all of the Class 175s became available to ATW, resulting in 16 Class 158s being released for transfer to other operators.<ref name=TRUK184>{{cite magazine |title = The Alstom Class 175 DMUs |magazine = [[Today's Railways UK]] |issue = 184 |date = April 2017 |pages = 40–47}}</ref>

In 2006, heritage unit [[British Rail Class 121|121032]] was purchased by ATW for use on the [[Cardiff Bay]] Shuttle. The unit was overhauled by LNWR, Crewe,<ref>{{cite magazine |title= | magazine = [[Rail Magazine]] |issue=544 |date= 19 July 2006 |page=23|location=Peterborough}}</ref>{{Full citation needed|date=May 2023}} entering service with ATW on 17 August 2006. In 2013, the unit suffered an engine failure. This could not be rectified, meaning that the unit was withdrawn. It was then used as a source of spare parts by sister company [[Chiltern Railways]].

In November 2007, another nine Class 150s were transferred from [[Central Trains]]. From February 2008, five Class 150s (150278-282) were subleased to [[Great Western Railway (train operating company)|First Great Western]]. This was later reduced to four and then two, the last examples being returned during 2011.

In December 2008, the loco-hauled Holyhead to Cardiff ''Premier Service'' was inaugurated. It was initially hauled by [[British Rail Class 57|Class 57s]] on hire from [[Virgin Trains]], initially in top-and-tail formation and later singularly, hauling three standard class [[British Rail Mark 2|MK2s]] and a [[British Rail Mark 3|MK3]] first/buffet. Four Class 57s were repainted at [[Cardiff Canton TMD|Cardiff Canton]] and six Mark 2s were refreshed at [[Eastleigh Works]]. During March 2012, newer [[British Rail Class 67|Class 67]] locomotives took over from the Class 57s, and Mark 3 carriages refurbished by Pullman Rail replaced the older Mark 2s in October 2012.<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.nwrail.org.uk/nw1203d.htm |title = Changeover day |publisher = North Wales Coast Railway Notice Board |date = 26 March 2012 |access-date = 25 September 2012 |archive-date = 30 July 2013 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130730163336/http://www.nwrail.org.uk/nw1203d.htm |url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.nwrail.org.uk/nw1210c.htm |title = Gerald's Big Day...happens! |publisher = North Wales Coast Railway Notice Board |date = 15 October 2012 |access-date = 16 October 2012 |archive-date = 30 October 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121030092748/http://www.nwrail.org.uk/nw1210c.htm |url-status = dead }}</ref> From October 2011 until August 2012, 150280 was subleased to [[National Express East Anglia]]/[[Abellio Greater Anglia]]. In December 2014, a further Mark 3 set was introduced on services from Manchester Piccadilly-Holyhead/Llandudno.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.gov.uk/government/news/green-light-for-extra-rail-services-between-england-and-wales |title = Green light for extra services between England and Wales |publisher = Department for Transport |date = 16 July 2014 |access-date = 30 August 2014 |archive-date = 3 September 2014 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140903112223/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/green-light-for-extra-rail-services-between-england-and-wales |url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-north-wales-manchester-train-7431144 |title = New North Wales to Manchester train services launched in £1.2 million deal |work = Daily Post |date = 16 July 2014 |access-date = 30 August 2014 |archive-date = 3 September 2014 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140903055224/http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-north-wales-manchester-train-7431144 |url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.nwrail.org.uk/nw1407d.htm |title = 'Irish Mancurian' is Go |publisher = North Wales Coast Railway Notice Board |date = 21 July 2014 |access-date = 30 August 2014 |archive-date = 3 September 2014 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140903084754/http://www.nwrail.org.uk/nw1407d.htm |url-status = dead }}</ref>

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Fleet at the end of franchise
|-
! rowspan="2" |Family
! rowspan="2" |Class
! rowspan="2" |Image
! rowspan="2" |Type
! colspan="2" |Top Speed
! rowspan="2" |Number
! rowspan="2" |Routes Operated
! rowspan="2" |Built
|- style="background:#f9f9f9;"
!mph
!km/h
|-
| rowspan="3" |''[[Premier Service]]''
|[[British Rail Class 67|67]]
|align="center"|[[File:Alstom General Motors Class 67 No 67003 (7786994576).jpg|120x120px|alt=]]
|align="center"|[[Diesel locomotive|Loco]]
|align="center" rowspan="3"|125
|align="center" rowspan="3"|200
|align="center"|3
|rowspan=3|
* Holyhead–Cardiff Central
* Holyhead (Llandudno)–Manchester Piccadilly
|align=center|{{nowrap|1999{{ndash}}2000}}
|-
|[[British Rail Mark 3|Mark 3]]
|align="center"|[[File:Arriva Mk3 TSO 12181 at Cardiff Central.JPG|120x120px|alt=]]
|align="center"|[[Passenger car (rail)|Coach]]
|align="center"|12
|align="center"|1975{{ndash}}1988
|-
|[[Driving Van Trailer]]
| align="center" |[[File:Arriva Trains Wales DVT at Cardiff Central by Jeremy Segrott.jpg|120x120px|alt=]]
| align="center" |[[Control car]]
|align="center"|3
|align="center"|1988
|-
| rowspan="3" |[[Pacer (train)|Pacer]]
|[[British Rail Class 142|142]] 
| align="center" |[[File:142080 at Cardiff Central (29805614596).jpg|120x120px|alt=]]
| align="center" rowspan="2" |[[Diesel multiple unit|DMU]]
| align="center" rowspan="2" |75
| align="center" rowspan="2" |121
| align="center" |15
| rowspan="2" |Valley Lines & Cardiff Local Routes
|align="center"|1985{{ndash}}1987
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[British Rail Class 143|143]] 
|align="center" rowspan="2"|[[File:Ton Pentre railway station - geograph.org.uk - 4413398.jpg|120x120px]]
|15
|align="center"|1985{{ndash}}1986
|-
| colspan="6" |[[File:ATW 2017 143.png|300x300px]]
|-
| rowspan="4" |[[British Rail Sprinter|Sprinter]]
|[[British Rail Class 150|150/2]]
|[[File:150236 at Cardiff Central (32292222250).jpg|120x120px|alt=]]
| align="center" rowspan="3" |[[Diesel multiple unit|DMU]]
| align="center" rowspan="2" |75
| align="center" rowspan="2" |121
|align="center"|36<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.porterbrook.co.uk/rolling-stock/fleet?s=class-150-arriva-trains-wales | title = Fleet - Class 150 - Arriva Trains Wales | publisher = [[Porterbrook]] | access-date = 11 July 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180711084856/https://www.porterbrook.co.uk/rolling-stock/fleet?s=class-150-arriva-trains-wales | archive-date = 11 July 2018}}</ref>
| rowspan="2" |
* Cardiff Local Routes
* Heart of Wales/West Wales Lines
* Regional services between South and West Wales, North West and South West England
|align="center"|1986{{ndash}}1987
|-
||[[British Rail Class 153|153 ''Super Sprinter'']] 
|[[File:Abertawe - Arriva 153303.JPG|120x120px]]
|align="center"|8
|align="center"|1987{{ndash}}1988
|-
|rowspan=2|[[British Rail Class 158|158/0 ''Express Sprinter'']]
|rowspan=2|[[File:158818 at Cardiff Central (31654595231).jpg|120x120px|alt=]]
|align="center"|90
|align="center"|140
|align="center"|24
|
* Birmingham International–Aberystwyth
* Regional services between South and North Wales, North West and South West England
|align="center"|1990{{ndash}}1991
|-
| colspan="6" |[[File:Class 158 arriva trains wales diagram.PNG|400x400px]]
|-
| rowspan="2" |[[Alstom Coradia]]
| rowspan="2"|[[British Rail Class 175|175 ''Coradia 1000'']]
| rowspan="2" align="center" |[[File:175011 near Marshfield, Newport (28985136302).jpg|120x120px|alt=]]
|align="center"|[[Diesel multiple unit|DMU]]
|align="center"|100
|align="center"|161
|align="center"|27
|Regional services between North West England, North and South Wales
|align="center"|1999{{ndash}}2001
|-
| colspan="6" |[[File:Arriva Wales Class 175 0.png|518x518px]]
[[File:Arriva Wales Class 175 1.png|770x770px]]
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Past fleet
|-
! rowspan="2" |Class
! rowspan="2" |Image
! rowspan="2" |Type
! colspan="2" |Top Speed
! rowspan="2" |Built
! rowspan="2" |Withdrawn
|- style="background:#f9f9f9;"
!mph
!km/h
|-
|[[British Rail Class 121|121]]
|align="center"|[[File:BubbleatCQB.JPG|120x120px|alt=]]
|align="center"|[[Diesel multiple unit|DMU]]
|align=center|70
|align=center|112
|align=center|1960
|align=center|2013
|-
|[[British Rail Class 57|57/3]]
|align="center"|[[File:57315 , Abergele.jpg|120x120px|alt=]]
|align="center"|[[Diesel Locomotive|Loco]]
|align="center"|95
|align="center"|153
|align="center"|{{nowrap|1964{{ndash}}1967}} (rebuilt 1998{{ndash}}2004)
|align="center"|2012
|-
|[[British Rail Mark 2|Mark 2]]
|align="center"|[[File:BR Mk.IIf TSO No.5976 (6801455419).jpg|120x120px|alt=]]
|align="center"|[[Passenger car (rail)|Coach]]
|align="center"|100
|align="center"|160
|align=center|1972{{ndash}}1975
|align=center|{{nowrap|2007{{ndash}}2012}}
|}

==Depots==
Arriva Trains Wales' fleet were stabled at three depots.
* [[Chester TMD|Chester]] ([[Alstom]]): {{brc|175}}
* [[Cardiff Canton TMD|Cardiff Canton]]: {{brc|142}}, {{brc|143}}, {{brc|150}}, {{brc|153}} and [[British Rail Mark 3|Mark 3 stock]].
* Machynlleth: {{brc|158}}

==Demise==
During the mid-2010s, as Arriva Trains Wales' 15-year franchise period came towards its scheduled end date, the process to select a successor was started. In October 2016, [[Abellio (transport company)|Abellio]], Arriva, [[Keolis]]/[[Amey plc|Amey]] and [[MTR Corporation]] were shortlisted to bid for the next franchise.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/policy/single-view/view/wales-borders-bidders-asked-to-submit-metro-options.html |title = Wales & Borders bidders asked to propose Metro options |work = [[Railway Gazette International]] |date = 13 October 2016 |access-date = 20 October 2016 |archive-date = 19 October 2016 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161019191709/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/policy/single-view/view/wales-borders-bidders-asked-to-submit-metro-options.html |url-status = dead }}</ref> During September 2017, the formal Invitation to Tender was issued.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478018/nov-2015-rail-franchise-schedule.pdf |title = DfT Rail Franchise Schedule |access-date = 13 December 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151123202906/https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/478018/nov-2015-rail-franchise-schedule.pdf |archive-date = 23 November 2015 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url = http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/wales-borders-franchise-invitations-to-tender-issued.html |title = Wales & Borders franchise invitations to tender issued | work = Railway Gazette |access-date = 10 December 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171211053434/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/wales-borders-franchise-invitations-to-tender-issued.html |archive-date = 11 December 2017 |url-status = bot: unknown |df = dmy-all }}</ref>

During October 2017, it was announced that Arriva was voluntarily withdrawing itself from the tendering process; the decision was reportedly viewed by some politicians as having raised questions about the franchise process.<ref>{{cite news |url = http://www.railjournal.com/index.php/main-line/arriva-pulls-out-of-wales-borders-franchise-contest.html?channel=524 |title = Arriva pulls out of Wales & Borders franchise contest |work = [[International Railway Journal]] |date = 30 October 2017 |access-date = 31 October 2017 |archive-date = 7 November 2017 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171107052659/http://www.railjournal.com/index.php/main-line/arriva-pulls-out-of-wales-borders-franchise-contest.html?channel=524 |url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-41809874 |title = Arriva Trains Wales drops out of Welsh rail franchise bid |work = BBC News |date = 30 October 2017 |access-date = 20 June 2018 |archive-date = 19 June 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180619020355/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-politics-41809874 |url-status = dead }}</ref> In February 2018, rival firm Abellio also opted to withdraw, which was largely due to its partner company [[Carillion]] having effectively collapsed and entered [[liquidation]] one month earlier.<ref>{{cite news |last1 = Gerrard |first1 = Bradley |title = Abellio pulls out of rail bid after Carillion collapse |url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2018/02/23/abellio-pulls-rail-bid-carillion-collapse/ | url-access = subscription | access-date = 23 May 2023 |work = The Telegraph |date = 23 February 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180224203009/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2018/02/23/abellio-pulls-rail-bid-carillion-collapse/ |archive-date = 24 February 2018 |url-status = live |df = dmy-all}}</ref>

On 23 May 2018, it was announced that [[KeolisAmey Wales]] has been selected to operate the next [[Wales & Borders franchise]], which was set to run for 15 years, following the expiry of Arriva Trains Wales' franchise.<ref>{{cite news |url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-44221184 |title = Wales' trains to be run by European firms KeolisAmey |work = BBC News |date = 23 May 2018 |access-date = 23 May 2018 |archive-date = 23 May 2018 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180523063434/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-44221184 |url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-44316772 |title = New trains and more services in £5bn deal |date = 4 June 2018 |work = BBC News |access-date = 4 June 2018 |language = en-GB}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
*{{Commons category-inline}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20181013031113/https://www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/ Arriva Trains Wales official website]

{{s-start}}
{{s-bef |before = [[Wales and Borders]]}}
{{s-ttl |rows = 1 |title = Operator of [[Wales & Borders franchise]] |years = 2003–2018}}
{{s-aft |after = [[KeolisAmey Wales]]}}
{{s-end}}

{{UK TOCs|defunct|state=collapsed}}
{{Arriva Group UK}}
{{Transport in Wales|state=collapsed}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Arriva Group companies]]
[[Category:Defunct train operating companies in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Railway companies established in 2003]]
[[Category:Railway companies disestablished in 2018]]
[[Category:Railway companies of Wales]]
[[Category:Rail transport in Shropshire]]
[[Category:Rail transport in Wales]]
[[Category:Transport in Cardiff]]
[[Category:Transport operators of Wales]]
[[Category:2003 establishments in Wales]]
[[Category:2018 disestablishments in Wales]]