Major timetable changes to rail services on the North Wales Coast line will be introduced in May.

Transport for Wales (TfW) says the number of trains will increase by around 50% as part of one of the most significant shake-ups in the region for a generation.

From Sunday 17th May, Holyhead will be served by trains to and from Manchester Airport in an effort to improve wider transport links with the North West of England.

A new service pattern will be introduced to improve commuting options to Holyhead and Bangor, while Valley station will now be a compulsory stop on all services.

Services to and from Birmingham and Birmingham Airport will operate from Llandudno Junction instead of Holyhead, while the Liverpool - Chester service via Runcorn will be extended to Llandudno.

Colin Lea, planning director at TFW, said: “This is a once‑in‑a‑generation transformation for rail services in North Wales."

"By increasing capacity, improving frequencies, and simplifying the timetable, we’re creating a more reliable and connected network that better serves the needs of our customers and communities.”

TfW says the changes - part of the Network North Wales scheme - will support growing demand for sustainable travel and stronger community links by improving rail capacity and reliability.

Transport Secretary Ken Skates added: "This is fantastic news for passengers.

“Alongside a generational £14bn investment in Welsh rail, new trains and a fare freeze, the new timetable change is another huge improvement for public transport."

The new structure introduces a standard hourly pattern, meaning some trains will run at the same time each hour to make journey planning easier.

Some direct journeys will no longer operate, meaning passengers will have to change trains at key stations such as Chester and Llandudno Junction - with customers being advised to check their journeys before travelling.

Emma Osborn, passenger strategy director at Network Rail Wales and Borders said, “We’re really pleased to have supported the introduction of enhanced services for communities along the North Wales Coast and into the North of England."

"Improving connectivity is vital, and this uplift will make it easier for people to travel, while strengthening links between regions.”

Other changes will see the two separate hourly services to Chester from Wrexham and Crewe being combined into one.