TRACK TALK

➜ Caernarfon should be reconnected

I SUPPORT the letter from Michael Huber in issue 277 regarding linking up lines to create a tourist rail network in north west Wales.

The case for Caernarfon to be on the National Rail network is very strong. With a World Heritage Site (Caernarfon Castle) and a heritage railway it would be a very attractive destination for through trains from Manchester Airport and London.

I only take issue with the need for a joint station in the town. Good interchange between national rail and local buses is important, but a short walk through an attractive town centre between stations might be welcomed by those making leisure trips.

Indeed, by the time that visitors reach Caernarfon, many would enjoy the chance to stretch their legs and grab a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants within the town walls.

There is room for a long platform in the cutting east of the tunnel and this is adjacent to Bangor Road for a bus interchange. The line could pass north of Morrisons, which stands on the old station site, and a bay platform could be provided under the car park behind Asda.

Extending the Welsh Highland Railway through the tunnel would render the recently opened new station building redundant and might conflict with a scheme currently being considered by Welsh Government to reopen through to Afonwen.

Bob Saxby, Caernarfon, Gwynedd