THE leader of the council overseeing the new Ebbw Vale to Cardiff railway link launched a stinging attack over ongoing delays dogging the £30 million project.

Blaenau Gwent council leader Hedley McCarthy laid the blame for the continuing delays firmly at the door of Network Rail - because fencing work along either side of the track for 18 miles needs to be completed.

Councillor McCarthy said: "The line was handed to Network Rail two weeks ago. We've done all we can - it's in the hands of them now and Arriva Trains who are training the drivers.

"You show me fencing on railways elsewhere in the country that is in perfect order for that length before trains can even run."

Councillor McCarthy said contractors acting for Network Rail are carrying out "snagging" works.

Residents have received letters from contractors Amey stating work will be ongoing in the evenings and on weekends to finish the work.

Councillor McCarthy admitted there is still no date for the commencement of passenger services and he slammed the National Assembly for allegedly being more interested in an opening "junket" for dignitaries.

"I am more interested in seeing passenger services running safely and efficiently on that line - that's my main priority," he said.

"It's frustrating of course but I want people to keep this in perspective.

"We are still only looking at matter of weeks which is not long when you consider there haven't been services on the line for 40 years.

"But I won't even be suggesting a date until Network Rail and Arriva Trains are prepared to sign it in blood."

The Argus reported how an official inspection by Her Majesty's Railway Inspectorate is set to take place within the next week to give the final approval to begin passenger services.

An Assembly spokesman said: "We are not interested in an opening junket either - our key concern is that passenger services are running as soon as possible."

Network Rail declined to comment on Councillor McCarthy's remarks.