More carriages and free Wi-Fi call for Shropshire/Mid Wales train line
More carriages, free Wi-Fi and better timetables are among the improvements being called for on a train line between Shropshire and Mid Wales.
The Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth Rail Passengers Association also wants former stations along the Cambrian line to be reopened and better parking to be provided.
The association is calling for the changes to be brought in when the line's franchise is up for renewal in 2018.
The franchise is currently held by Arriva Trains Wales, but members of Sarpa say they want a new Wales and Borders franchise to improve the service, which runs from Birmingham through Telford, Shrewsbury, Welshpool and Newtown en route to the Welsh coast.
Councillor Michael Williams, a member of Sarpa, said: "The changeover of the franchise provides a real opportunity to influence and secure long-term improvements on the line.
"We want to see the new franchise increase the number of carriages on existing services, with free Wi-Fi installed on all trains.
"A timetable that makes commuting for work or education opportunities viable at both ends of the line is of the upmost importance, together with the retention of through trains to Birmingham International." He added: "We are also seeking improvements to connections at Shrewsbury to north west England.
"Improvements to waiting facilities at Welshpool and Tywyn stations are also sought, along with better parking at Welshpool, Machynlleth and Aberystwyth. A new fleet of trains suitable for scenic lines should also be purchased by 2022 and a station reopening programme which examines the possibilities for Hanwood, Abermule, Carno and Bow Street should also be implemented."
Councillor Williams added: "Further into the future, Sarpa looks forward to the HS2 hub at Crewe and the running of through trains there from the Cambrian by 2027.
"The electrification of the line from Wolverhampton to Shrewsbury should happen by 2024 and will present the opportunity for through InterCity trains from London returning to the Cambrian, while keeping the vital through link to Birmingham."
Earlier this year, four new services began daily along the line between Shrewsbury and Aberystwyth. The new services leave Aberystwyth on weekdays at 6.30am, 8.30am, 12.30pm and 6.30pm, meaning it has an hourly service during the rush hours.
