AFTER years of waiting, the Welsh Government announced extra capacity on the Ebbw Vale to Cardiff line and one train an hour will stop in Newport.

Along with others, I’ve campaigned for this for many years.

Since being elected I’ve met regularly with the cabinet secretary, first minister and transport officials to put the strong case forward as well as raising it in the Assembly chamber.

Work needs to be carried out on the line which will mean opening in 2021.

However, I will be urging the new franchise KeolisAmey to do this as soon as possible.

It is vital that KeolisAmey invest in the quality of trains, stations and services.

I’m pleased that they will replace every single train in Wales by 2023.

Half of those trains will be built in Wales, boosting the new CAF Rail facility in Newport.

I’m also reassured that a guard will be kept on every train and that Welsh Government are working with trade unions to protect the jobs and conditions of rail workers in Wales.

Newport is the busiest train station in Wales outside Cardiff.

With new housing developments and an increased population, linking the service to Newport will help ease traffic congestion and encourage more people to visit the city centre.

It will also give an important link for Rogerstone and Bassaleg residents and connect Newport to our nearby valley communities.

Improving our public transport system is key and I will continue to campaign for services that would benefit all areas of Newport and Caerleon.

We need to have a transport system fit for the 21st century.

That also includes our roads.

I don’t think I’ve come across anyone who doesn’t accept there is a problem on the M4 around the Brynglas Tunnels.

The public inquiry into the M4 relief road is expected to report to Welsh Government at the end of the summer.

The inquiry is the longest and most thorough in Welsh history, examining 28 options including the Government’s preferred route.

Once the report is received I believe a decision must be made swiftly.

Doing nothing or more delays to a decision will be costly for residents, businesses, visitors and commuters.

Inaction is not an option.

The Caerleon Festival starts on Thursday, July 5, and runs for 10 days.

Highlights include Literature on the Lawn, The Winter’s Tale and the Morriston Orpheus Choir.

For more information visit caerleon-arts.org/events or call 01633 430194.