An express bus service linking the hugely popular Ebbw Vale line with Newport is expected to determine how much of a demand there is for an Ebbw Vale to Newport rail link.
The year long pilot bus service, supported by Newport Council, is expected to commence early in the new year and is seen as a positive development in the 3 year campaign for a direct rail service.
The opening of the Ebbw Vale to Cardiff route in 2008 saw a mass exodus of bus users switch to rail, with passenger numbers exceeding predictions by around 100% in the first 18 months.
Buses will connect with rail services at Rogerstone and passengers will be able to purchase through tickets for use on both bus and rail.
