With 2018 marking the 150th anniversary of the Conwy Valley Railway line reaching Betws-y-Coed, Janet Finch-Saunders, Assembly Member for Aberconwy, was delighted to join the celebrations in Llanrwst over the weekend, and has spoken of how she is working to help boost the line’s popularity and use even further.
Janet said:
“The special Circus at Llanrwst was a huge triumph. Despite the rain, hundreds of people turned out to join in the carnival celebrating our very special railway.
“Through many individuals selflessly giving their time to help make the day possible, not only was money raised for the National Eisteddfod 2019, but true appreciation given to how lucky we are to have the Conwy Valley Railway line.
“My support of our railway is well established. For example, earlier this year I welcomed the increase in the use of stations along the southern section of the line, challenged the Welsh Government over the impact of flooding, and pressed the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure on numerous occasions to take a major step towards strengthening the line by introducing a direct service from Manchester Airport to Blaenau Ffestiniog.
“With so many major UK attractions situated within walking distance of the stations, such as Bodnant Garden, Surf Snowdonia, Zip World Forest, and, of course, Snowdonia National Park, I believe that a strong business case could be made for having a Snowdonia Express running from Manchester to Blaenau Ffestiniog.
“Given that this is a special year for the line, not only due to its birthday, but with Keolis Amey taking over the franchise, I have requested a meeting with the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure, the Minister for Culture, Tourism and Sport, and the new operator to discuss the future of the line as it sets off on its next 150 year journey”.
ENDS
Written Assembly Question to Ken Skates AM, Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure:
Further to WAQ75948 will the Cabinet Secretary and Minister for Culture, Tourism and Sport meet with Keolis Amey and I to discuss the future of the Conwy Valley Railway line, and the potential of having improved rail connectivity between Blaenau Ffestiniog and Manchester Airport?
Notes:
Southern Conwy Valley Railway Stations see Significant Increase in Use
Manchester Airport - Conwy Valley: AM calls for better rail connectivity
Welsh Government’s Tourism Strategy Failing the North Wales tourist industry
Photo:
Janet Finch-Saunders AM at the Celebratory Circus in Llanrwst