Improved train timetable between Shropshire and Mid Wales is on right track
More than 50 representatives of businesses, councils, tourism and community groups between Shrewsbury and Swansea have welcomed an improved timetable for the Heart of Wales railway line.
Professor Paul Salveson, a lecturer and consultant on railway policy, was a speaker at the meeting held this week.
He said: "The railway improvements could be the catalyst for wider and sustainable development of Mid-Wales which brings social, economic and environmental benefits but which respects and celebrates the distinctiveness of the area."
The Heart of Wales Line Forum is hoping the new timetable – which will see an extra train brought into service in May – will be the first step towards improved operational service, and is focussing on the rail franchise in 2018. Alongside this will be a new social enterprise developing local ideas for community rail and inviting participation across the area and sharing resources.
Forum chairman and Shropshire councillor Mansel Williams said: "I would like to thank the Welsh Minister, Mrs Edwina Hart, who has supported and guided work towards an improved train service on the Swansea – Shrewsbury line. The Forum's paper Unlocking Mid Wales outlines plans to work in the community and with local businesses to make better use of railway assets, whilst helping to regenerate the Mid Wales region in a sustainable way."
The line was recently featured on the BBC's Great British Railway Journeys series with Michael Portillo and in the French TV travel show Belles Echapees.
