THERE IS no reason why Welsh rail links lost under the Beeching cuts of the 1960s couldn’t be restored to increase jobs and growth, according to Ceredigion MP Ben Lake.

Commenting on plans drawn up by transport secretary Chris Grayling to expand the rail network Mr Lake said the possible reopening of the Aberystwyth-Carmarthen rail link had “huge support” in Ceredigion.

“It could help address the lack of public transport, improve connectivity, and serve as a significant boost to the economy,” he said.

“The Secretary of State has earmarked billions towards reversing the Beeching cuts.

“There is no reason why some of this money could not be invested to reopen former lines in Wales, such as the Aberystwyth to Carmarthen line.”

The Government has revealed it will invite proposals to reopen lines that were closed down following reports by Dr Richard Beeching in the 1960s, or under later British Rail cuts in the 1970s.

Mr Grayling has said opening up these rail routes could boost the economy.

As part of a budget agreement with Plaid Cymru, the Welsh Government has commissioned a study investigating the feasibility of reopening the railway line between Aberystwyth and Carmarthen, of which both Mr Lake and AM Elin Jones have been supportive.

See this week’s south papers for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition now