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Direct train services to Newport along the Ebbw Valley line could start in December, a senior Blaenau Gwent councillor has said.

At a recent  meeting of Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council’s cabinet, Cllr John Morgan, portfolio holder for regeneration, gave an update on the project to upgrade the line between Ebbw Vale and Newport.

Cllr Morgan said: “Questions have been asked about the rail infrastructure programme lately.

“Just to bring you up to date, the improvement work on the Llanhilleth station is due to be completed in August, which I feel is extremely good news.

“Timetabling for the Ebbw Vale to Newport service is close to being finalised and it is anticipated that the first train will start in December.

“We also anticipate that the project is on track to be completed within time and budget.

Director of regeneration and community, Ellie Fry said: “We and Welsh Government are keeping a close eye on Network Rail and Transport for Wales, there’s a lot of scrutiny and management undertaken.

“We don’t have any real issues that might take us over budget.”

Blaenau Gwent Council leader Cllr Steve Thomas said: “It is well to make the point that this huge scheme is running to budget.”

The Ebbw Valley line reopened to passengers in February 2008, after being closed for more than 40 years. It serves the stations for Newbridge, Crosskeys, and Risca and Pontymister

However passengers wishing to go to Newport have to travel to Cardiff first to change trains.

Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council received a £70 million interest-free loan to carry out infrastructure improvements in its area alongside work by Network Rail and service operator Transport for Wales.

A huge programme of work is being conducted along the entire length of the line including a new platform at Newbridge to accommodate longer trains in future.