Trunk roads programme We responded to the Welsh Office consultation document, urging that rail investment should be considered in preference to several major road schemes which were being contemplated. We pointed out that not only would this result in substantial environmental benefits, it would also be cheaper. We quoted several examples to back this up including the ''South Wales Metro'' proposals (see last issue). These would cost £40m compared to £330m for the proposed M4 relief road. Proper use of the under-utilised line to Fishguard could obviate the need for spending £7m on a bypass. Our aspirations for reopening the Vale of Glamorgan line, which could serve Cardiff International Airport could be achieved for under £3m, as opposed to the £54m for a proposed new road.
Integrated transport: Our detailed response to the Welsh Office is in preparation as this issue closes for press.
Through train Wales and West (formally South Wales and West Trains) have introduced a through regional express train from Barry.
Planning problems: RDS has formally objected to a planning application for building houses in Llantwit Major station forecourt. This land will be needed for access and parking if the station is reopened.
A step in the right direction: RDS proposals for reopening the Vale of Glamorgan line to passenger traffic have taken a step closer with the launch of a new train service which puts Barry back on the regional express rail map. The new service, operated by Wales and West leaves Barry Island at 06.40 for Birmingham New Street. RDS Wales is campaigning for such services to extend over the Vale of Glamorgan line, before continuing to West Wales. The next step could be extending the new service a couple of miles beyond Barry to a new station at Rhoose, which could serve Cardiff Wales Airport.
You can email Railwatch editor Ray King at editor@railwatch.org.uk (or just click on this link), e-mail Deltic Design with comments about the Railwatch Web pages, or visit their web site.
RiscPC