COMMENTING on plans by Network Rail to build a series of high-speed tracks similar to Japan's "bullet trains" or the French TGV, across the UK, Tory AM Alun Cairns is seeking assurances that the new service would come to Swansea.

Alun Cairns, the Conservative AM for South Wales West has written to the Transport Minister calling for guarantees that, if the planned route from London to South Wales were to be built, it would go all the way to Swansea. He said;

“These ambitious plans would see the biggest rail building programme since Victorian times, with new inter-city routes criss-crossing the county with trains travelling at speeds up to 186mph.

“Swansea is currently to start city on the current South Wales to London inter-city route and it is important for the future of the city that the new route will also continue to run through it.

“I am seeking assurances from the Welsh Assembly Government that they will work with Network Rail to ensure that Swansea does not become cut off.

“I look forward to the day that bullet trains leave and enter Swansea travelling at speeds well over 100mph, dramatically reducing travelling times between the city and London.”