IMPROVEMENTS to road networks across south Wales must go hand-in-hand with increased rail services, a Gwent AM has said.

Last week Theresa May announced a Conservative UK Government would entirely scrap tolls on the two Severn bridges.

And, speaking in the Senedd yesterday, South Wales East’ AM Mark Reckless, who last month left Ukip to join the Senedd’s Conservative group, said these plans along with the proposed M4 relief road should go alongside rail improvements in the region.

Addressing first minister Carwyn Jones he said: “Following the very welcome abolition of the Severn tolls, and we hope the construction of an M4 relief road, does the first minister agree with me that the importance of rail as an alternative to integrate with the road system only increases?”

Mr Reckless also backed a proposal which would see three new train stations in Magor, Llanwern and St Mellons.

Mr Jones replied: “It’s right to stay that, in different stages, we are looking at reopening lines to the east of Cardiff and Newport, an area that’s not been well served by the rail network.”

He added: “We can’t simply build roads.

“We must make sure, as roads are improved and built, that we also provide better public transport connections as well.”