THREE Gwent authorities could join forces to put pressure on for the passenger rail link from Ebbw Vale to Newport to be introduced as quickly as possible.

Support for the Argus Get Us Back on Track campaign has flooded in since it was launched last year.

We are calling for a passenger rail link from Ebbw Vale to Newport to be opened at the same time as, or even before, the Ebbw Vale to Cardiff link is due to be operational in 2005.

We say the mile-long track linking the Ebbw Vale line to Newport should be re-opened in 2005 because it is vital for the regeneration of Ebbw Vale, giving people access to job opportunities in Newport.

First Minister Rhodri Morgan told the Argus in January the Newport-Ebbw Vale link could reopen in 2005 but was later forced to admit he was mistaken.

But Cabinet members on Newport city council were to consider a report today on a proposal to set up a railway project joint committee with Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly councils.

Officers from the three authorities have already been working together to promote the re-opening of the Ebbw Vale line to passenger traffic.

In his report, head of engineering Brian Kemp says the original intention was to secure a regular service between Ebbw Vale and Newport.

He adds that - although the possibility of achieving this has not been totally discounted - it looks likely that the initial service will be to Cardiff and the Newport service introduced at a later date.

"Notwithstanding this, however, the council will still maintain an interest in the initial phases of the project in the form of a new station at Rogerstone with public transport links to the city centre and subsequently a new station at Pye Corner." It is now suggested the three local authorities form a joint committee to oversee statutory processes that now have to start.

"The remit of the committee will be to progress the scheme to the opening of passenger services on the line and then to ensure that the second train per hour, serving Newport, is introduced as quickly as possible."

* In the picture: Ebbw Vale to Newport rail link at Park junction, the Gaer, Newport.