GWENT could benefit from plans to improve the railway network in Wales that were revealed today.

Network Rail's ambitions for the next 30 years include more seats on Valley line services during peak times and extra carriages on some services between Cardiff and Manchester, which travels through Gwent. There is also a proposal to upgrade speed on relief lines between Severn Tunnel Junction and Cardiff.

A study by the rail infrastructure body predicts rail travel into Cardiff will grow from 13m to 33m by 2043.

Other potential developments include:

  • Modernisation of the North Wales coast main line between Crewe and Holyhead
  • Redevelopment of Cardiff central station
  • More seats on Cardiff Valley line services during peak times
  • Extra peak services on the Heart of Wales line from Swansea to Shrewsbury

Janet Jones of the Federation of Small Businesses Wales welcomed the proposals saying: “It is particularly pleasing that the document has identified the upgrading and possible electrification of the North Wales mainline and improvement to the Valley Lines network as part of plans for a South Wales Metro.

“Such schemes have a vital role to play in supporting economic growth in Wales. It is up to government and the train companies to provide the funding to deliver the key projects identified by this document, so that we can move towards a rail network that is fit for the needs of modern Wales.”

Wales Office Minister Alun Cairns today welcomed proposals by Network Rail to modernise the railway in Wales to meet future demand for passenger and freight journeys.

He said: "It is essential that Wales has cutting edge transport links to move people to jobs, encourage investment and help grow our economy - a key part of our long term economic plan.

"I welcome Network Rail's initial proposals to modernise the railway across Wales which could include the electrification of the North Wales Main Line.