TRAINS bound for Ebbw Vale made an appearance at Newport railway station for four days this week when engineering works diverted trains to the city station. Direct trains ran from Newport to Ebbw Vale and back on Monday to Thursday evening while diversions were place during engineering works.

The leader of Blaenau Gwent Labour group said that the temporary diversion suggested it was possible to run trains from Newport as well as Cardiff.

The Argus has campaigned for many years for a permanent service between Ebbw Vale and Newport – but this week services between the two were listed on the National Rail enquiries website.

Despite the temporary direct service, however, single tickets still cost £8.90 despite a ticket to Cardiff from Ebbw Vale Parkway costing £5.

On Wednesday and last night, trains ran at 8.54pm, 9.54pm and 11.24pm from Newport to Ebbw Vale Parkway.

On the way back, trains ran at 9.41pm and 10.41pm.

An Arriva Trains Wales spokesman said: “Improvements to the infrastructure on the Ebbw Vale line are needed before an hourly service can run regularly to Newport in addition to the current Cardiff service.

“In situations such as temporary late night or weekend engineering work, alterations can be made to the service routes, such as diverting services via Newport.

“This is in order to minimise disruption to passengers and is only possible in certain circumstances.”

Cllr Hedley McCarthy, Blaenau Gwent Labour group leader, said: “It seems to suggest that its possible to run trains from Newport as well as to Cardiff.”