WELSH Transport Minister Carl Sargeant said an electrified rail network would deliver better value for money to the taxpayer.

"The decision to invest in these projects represents the first step towards achieving my vision for a modernised rail infrastructure across the whole of Wales,’’ he said.

"We can build on this announcement by moving to the next stage in planning a truly integrated transport system for the south-east region.

"We will now work with the Department for Transport and Network Rail to ensure that the Valley Lines electrification coincides with the re-letting of the next Wales and Borders franchise.’’