Call for better rail service

REGIONAL AM Suzy Davies is to campaign for a half hourly rail service to Maesteg.

She criticised Welsh Government for failing to include this commitment into its new multi-billion pound rail franchise.

Mrs Davies, who is a Welsh Conservative, raised questions with Network Rail and with Economy and Transport Secretary Ken Skates to ask about progress on plans to install a passing loop along the line so that service frequency can be increased from one train an hour to two.

She said: “The replies I received from both were quite vague on detail but I was told that they are considering providing the loop in old sidings at the former Llynfi Power Station or at Tondu Railway Station.

“No definite decisions have been taken despite the fact that this scheme has been included in Welsh Government’s capital programme for transport for some years.

“Now, the fact that there is no commitment by KeolisAmey, the new franchise holders, to provide this improved service at any point over the next 15 years suggests that Welsh Government and Network Rail have sought the longest possible grass into which they can kick this.

“I welcome the news that there are to be Sunday trains along the line which is great for shoppers or people attending social and cultural events in Cardiff. But with no concrete proposals in the franchise, it looks like Maesteg commuters are left with hourly services indefinitely.

“What we need is a service every half hour.”