Origins and Industrial Growth
The Garw Valley Railway traces its roots to the mid-19th century, when James Brogden, an engineer and industrialist, sought to improve coal transport in the Garw Valley. At the time, coal from small drift mines had to be hauled over mountains to reach the railway network. In 1866, three railway companies merged to form the Llynfi & Ogmore Railway Company, which was later absorbed by the Great Western Railway (GWR) in 1873. The Garw branch was completed and opened in 1876, unlocking access to the valley’s rich coal reserves[1].

Peak of Coal Transport
By the late 19th century, the Garw Valley had become a hub of coal production, with four major collieries producing thousands of tons daily. The railway played a crucial role in transporting coal to export docks in Cardiff, Newport, Barry, and Swansea. This infrastructure helped establish Cardiff as a global coal-exporting capital. The Garw Valley Railway was part of one of the densest railway networks in the world during its heyday, fueling the Industrial Revolution and contributing significantly to Britain’s economic growth[1].

Decline and Closure
As coal mining declined across South Wales, so did the railways that served the industry. Passenger services on the Garw branch ceased around the 1950s, and the last working mine, Ocean Colliery, closed in December 1985. The railway briefly reopened in the 1990s to remove spoil tips, with farewell enthusiast trains running in 1996 and 1997. After that, the line fell into disuse, reflecting the broader decline of industrial railways in the region[1].

Preservation and Revival Efforts
In 1988, a preservation group was formed, and by 1994, the Bridgend Valleys Railway Company was incorporated. The Garw Valley Railway, now a heritage project, aims to restore passenger services between Pontycymer and Brynmenyn. Volunteers have developed infrastructure at Pontycymer, including a train shed, platform, and relaid track. The railway currently hosts open days to showcase progress and educate the public about its industrial heritage[2][3].

Future Vision and Community Impact
The Garw Valley Railway aspires to reconnect with the national rail network at Tondu, enhancing tourism and local transport. Plans include creating a heritage centre in collaboration with the Garw Heritage Society, preserving archives and artefacts for future generations. The railway also contributes to environmental restoration and community regeneration, transforming a once-industrial landscape into a vibrant cultural and educational resource[3].

This historical summary was generated using artificial intelligence and is based on publicly available sources.
References