Jane Dodds has called on the Welsh Government to reverse cuts to train services on the Heart of Wales Line.

The Mid and West Wales MS said at the Senedd that a fifth train has been taken from the line’s timetable.

She said: “There are four trains a day in each direction going from Craven Arms and Shrewsbury, down to Llanelli and through such wonderful places as Llandrindod Wells, Llanwrtyd Wells, Llandeilo and Llandovery etc - 26 stations in total.

“It provides a transport option for communities living on the line and also an opportunity to boost tourism and visitors to the area.”

Two late evening services to Llandovery and Llandrindod Wells have also been scheduled for cancellation.

Ms Dodds asked for a statement from the Transport Secretary, Ken Skates.

She also asked the Trefnydd, Jane Hutt, to invite Mr Skates to join her and others on a journey through the 26 stations to see how beloved the line is and how much further investment in it is needed.

Ms Hutt said there are issues in terms of timetable changes for mainline services and more consistency for passengers.

But she said the Welsh Government has made an £800 million investment in a new fleet of modern trains.

Ms Hutt said passengers on the Heart of Wales line will benefit from the conversion of Class 153 active travel units which will provide additional seating and cycle capacity.

She said: “Overall in 2024, Transport for Wales services were the most punctual and reliable of all train operators in Wales.

“But there is still more to do - huge improvements as a direct result of public ownership and investment.

“It is important that you've drawn attention to the Heart of Wales line route capacity and the service.

“But this is also a partnership with Powys County Council in terms of integrated public transport services, and discussions are taking place.”

Speaking after the Senedd session, Ms Dodds said that “people of Powys need to be reassured that they aren’t being forgotten about.”

“Over the weekend I spoke to a number of residents in Cilmeri who are understandably very worried about these cuts,” she said.

“The Welsh Government must remember that any reduction of services on the Heart of Wales line risks severing a vital lifeline for our rural communities and businesses, who rely on these trains to stay connected with the rest of Wales.

“That’s why we need an urgent change of direction when it comes to transport links in Mid Wales, instead of cuts and setbacks we need investment and support.”