NORTH Wales rail passengers are set to benefit from a £5 billion investment in new environmentally friendly trains.

The investment is being made by Transport for Wales across Wales and the Borders and are expected to go into service first, in North Wales, during 2019.

The additional trains will provide a more efficient and environmentally friendly service using diesel and batteries. The new hybrid units will be the first used in regular passenger service in the UK.

James Price, Transport for Wales CEO added: “Customers are at the heart of everything we do at Transport for Wales. Our new trains with hybrid engines and modern facilities will significantly improve the customer experience.

“We are continuing our journey to transform the transport network in Wales and deliver on our promises.”

North Wales will benefit from the new units first on the Wrexham to Bidston route before the Crewe to Chester and Llandudno to Blaenau Ffestiniog routes.