Local AM calls for improvements on Heart of Wales line

5.37.34pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 25th Sep 2006

Welsh Liberal Democrat AM for Brecon and Radnorshire, Kirsty Williams, is to meet with the Managing Director of Arriva Trains Wales to discuss the recent problems on the Heart of Wales line.

Kirsty on a recent visit to the Heart of Wales Line in Llanwrtyd Wells

A number of individuals have been in touch with the local AM, after encountering problems while trying to travel on the line.

Ms Williams said: "In recent months, we have seen a number of problems with services on this line. Cancellations and delays cause frustration wherever they occur, but for passengers waiting at small rural stations, with no access to up-to-date information on a train's progress, and where the next train might not be due for several hours, they can cause real nightmares, and must act as a real deterrent to those contemplating using the service.

"I will be raising these issues with the head of Arriva Trains Wales when I next meet with him, and hope he can come up with some practical suggestions for improving the situation. I understand the Heart of Wales line Travellers Association is also seeking a meeting with Arriva to present their ideas, and I wish them every success in their discussions."

Notes:

Ms Williams has written to Bob Holland, Managing Director of Arriva Trains Wales, to request a meeting, and expects that one will be arranged shortly.

She has long campaigned for improvements to the Heart of Wales line - transcripts of speeches she has given at the Assembly in support of the line, letters she has written on the subject etc are available on request.