Plaid Cymru councillors have questioned a proposed new £33m transport network in Caerphilly and demanded answers from Transport for Wales and Caerphilly Council.
They say there has been no meaningful public consultation with residents along with full details of what is proposed, options to protect the town’s historic heritage, details of potential disruption or a firm timescale for any work.
Councillor Greg Ead said: "I welcome investment in Caerphilly county borough, but residents have a right to know exactly what £33 million of their money will deliver. At the moment there are more questions than answers.
“Before this project goes any further, Transport for Wales should publish detailed plans and undertake a full public consultation so that local people can have their say on a scheme that could significantly affect the town for years to come."
Councillor Charlotte Bishop, leader of the Plaid Cyrmu opposition group on Caerphilly Council said:
“Caerphilly Council also needs to be transparent about the budget. How much funding has actually been allocated to this project, and have all realistic alternatives been fully considered?
“If there are options that would protect Caerphilly’s historic character while delivering the transport improvements we need, those should be on the table. Our heritage is one of our greatest assets, and any investment should enhance it, not diminish it.
“There is also a wider question about how Labour-run Caerphilly Council sees our town. Do they see Caerphilly as simply a post-industrial community, or do they recognise it for what it is—a town with an extraordinary history, rich culture and one of Wales’ most iconic heritage assets?
“The way we define our town shapes the decisions we make and the future we build. If we continue to view Caerphilly only through a post-industrial lens, we risk overlooking the opportunities that come from embracing our heritage and cultural identity. Our future should bring these together, creating a town that celebrates its past while investing in modern infrastructure, tourism, regeneration and economic growth. Those ambitions are not in conflict—they should go hand in hand.”
Plaid Cymru has highlighted the key points of concern:
· £33 million of public money has been allocated, but there is still very little information available about exactly what the scheme will deliver.
· Residents have not been given clear details of what improvements are proposed, including whether the funding will provide a new station building, concourse, footbridge, passenger facilities, transport hub improvements or other infrastructure.
· There has been no meaningful public consultation with Caerphilly residents before the scheme was announced, despite its potential impact on the town centre and transport network.
· Local people deserve a say in any major regeneration project that will affect their daily journeys, businesses and community.
· Questions remain about value for money, particularly at a time when many residents are concerned about pressures on public services and local infrastructure.
· There is uncertainty over whether £33 million is sufficient to deliver the level of transformation being suggested, raising concerns about future cost increases or additional funding requests.
· No clear project timeline has been published, leaving residents unsure when works may begin, how long they may last and when any benefits will be realised.
· Potential disruption has not been fully explained, including the impact on rail passengers, commuters, local businesses, traffic and access to the town centre during construction.
· Transparency is essential. Residents should be able to see detailed plans, costs, expected benefits and delivery arrangements before major decisions are progressed.
· Public confidence requires openness. Transport for Wales should publish the full scope of the project and undertake a comprehensive consultation with residents, businesses and elected representatives.