6. Will the Minister provide an update on the provision of a regular train service between Ebbw Vale and Newport? OAQ(5)0071(EI)

Yes. We are currently procuring an operator and delivery partner as part of the Wales and borders services from 2018 and, of course, the metro. This process will also include discussions with bidders on how services from Ebbw Vale to Newport can best be delivered as part of the wider provision of the south-east Wales metro.

Thank you, Cabinet Secretary. The provision of a regular service between Ebbw Vale and Newport would be a key part of linking Newport with the Gwent valleys. Over the last 10 years, there have been campaigns supported by local AMs and the ‘South Wales Argus’ to ensure that this line would stop in Newport. It would be a crucial boost to the local economy and the public transport network, both in Newport and the Valleys communities on the route. Along with my constituents and my colleague John Griffiths, Assembly Member, I would be keen to see this happen as quickly as possible. Can the Cabinet Secretary confirm that a regular Newport-to-Ebbw Vale service remains a priority for the south Wales metro and the new rail franchise?

Yes. We are investing to allow for more frequent and faster services on the line, and we are also adding new platforms at a number of stations. We have funded Network Rail to deliver the project, and they have laid most of the new track that is necessary in the next stages for work to begin on the stations themselves. Network Rail’s work on the signalling system will start immediately afterwards.

Cabinet Secretary, I have been asking about a link to Newport since 2007-08, when it actually started. Network Rail has undertaken a number of works to deliver more frequent services for passengers on the Ebbw Vale line. These include the construction of new platforms and the re-signalling of the line. Could the Cabinet Secretary provide an update on these improvements, and when can we expect to see more frequent services to and from Ebbw Vale and Newport? Thank you.

Well, metro phase 1 is already under way, with a series of improvements to stations and to railway infrastructure. I’m conscious that the Member has been vocal about this matter since 2007, but I am delighted that this is being taken forward at pace now, and I look forward to the Member congratulating the Welsh Government on its delivery of this important project.