Better rail links 'need cash aid'.

BETTER rail services in Wales are dependent on Government subsidies, an inquiry by MPs and AMs was told yesterday.

The 15-year-long 'do nothing' franchises with rail operators did not demand major investment in routes and stations.

But transport consortia, including local councils, campaigning to improve services felt their ambitions for the service in Wales were often not matched by Network Rail.

AMs and MPs are staging a joint inquiry into the future of cross border rail links.

A recent study in North Wales for the Taith consortium identified opportunities for enhancements, and new stations.

Major infrastructure proposals include line speed improvements across North Wales and the scheme to redouble the single track section from Saltney Junction to Wrexham.

It called for the extension of the hourly Llandudno -Manchester train to Manchester Airport.

There were also aspirations for new stations at Towyn, Greenfield, Queensferry, Deeside Park, Rossett and Johnstown in the longer term.

But most of the options could only be feasible in conjunction with line speed improvements and additional rolling stock.

Arriva Trains Wales told the meeting in Cardiff it backed calls for electrification of the Wrexham-Bidston line "We are currently working closely with WAG on initiatives that could bring about faster journey times, improved reliability of train services and increased capacity."

But these would have to be phased in, said Mike Bagshaw, ATW commercial director.