Burnham Tackles Minister on Wrexham Train Link

12.04.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 19th Oct 2006

Eleanor Burnham AM has demanded answers from Transport Minister Andrew Davies over ongoing calls for a Wrexham to London rail link.

Ms Burnham, Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Member for North Wales, who has closely followed the campaign for a direct Wrexham to London train link, has questioned Mr Davies on:

• The issue of funding

• Talks between the Welsh Assembly Government, WSMR and Wrexham County Borough Council

• The government position on rail transport to benefit people in Wrexham and North Wales.

Ms Burnham said: "It is crucial that we find out exactly what the Minister has said regarding the Wrexham London rail link, including any commitments made towards the project, in order to take further steps to secure the best possible outcome for Wrexham.

"People in Wrexham and across North Wales have felt overlooked by the Welsh Assembly Government on this issue, particularly following the massive investment we have seen in South Wales rail lines such as Ebbw Vale. What we need now are some clear answers from the Minister to reassure everybody here that we will not be passed by.

"I have asked Mr Davies what action he has taken to benefit people in Wrexham, what support he has offered to the company involved and to consider the economic advantages such a service could bring to the area.

"I eagerly anticipate the Minister's response as soon as is possible."

Notes:

Ms Burnham's questions as tabled on 19/10/06

What negotiations has the Minister had with the WSMR Company?

What support has the WAG offered to WSMR?

What discussions has the Minister had with Wrexham CBC regarding the WSMR?

What estimates have been made of the economic advantage of the WSMR plans to Wrexham?

What action is the WAG taking to improve train services for the people of Wrexham and across North Wales as a whole?

What approaches have been made to the WAG by the WSMR Company?