THERE is "deep frustration" over the lack of rail services between Newport and Ebbw Vale, a city AM has said.

Currently only one train an hour runs on the Ebbw Vale line and there is no direct link between Newport and Ebbw Vale. Although the Welsh Government announced in 2015 the single track would be upgraded to two lines, meaning trains could run in both directions simultaneously, work stopped in December 2016.

And, speaking during First Minister's Questions this week, Newport West AM Jayne Bryant called for action to be taken on the link.

"A regular, reliable service on the Ebbw Vale to Newport rail link would ease congestion on our very busy roads and improve economic prosperity throughout the region," she said.

"There is deep frustration as people have been waiting a long time for this to happen.

"One extra train per hour on the line, running from Ebbw Vale to Newport via Rogerstone and Pye Corner on to Cardiff, would connect the Valleys and two of the largest cities in south east Wales and vice versa."

With the new contract for the Wales and Border franchise, currently held by Arriva Trains Wales, to be awarded in the near future, Ms Bryant asked for the link to form part of the negotiations with a new provider.

Replying, the first minister said: "We do remain committed to increasing frequency of services along the Ebbw Vale line and the options being considered do include services calling at Newport.

"It is important that the Ebbw line is consistent with our Metro aspirations, so we will work with the winning bidder to identify the technical solution that's required to complete the infrastructure that's needed to enhance the number of services along the line."