A MONMOUTHSHIRE county councillor is criticising the quality of services at railway stations around Caldicot.

James Harris, councillor for the West End area of the town, says railway stations across the area need better disabled access, heated waiting-rooms and better toilet facilities.

He spoke as the National Assembly took on new powers over public transport in Wales, with the Transport Wales Act 2006, and said people in the area needed to see improvements.

He said: "There are 10,000 people living in Magor and Undy and they don't have a train station.

"The car park by Severn Tunnel Junction is now charging £1.50 and there is no way for disabled people to get into Caldicot station.

"Train companies expect to be paid for these services but they are very substandard." Mr Harris added it was not encouraging people to leave their cars at home.

He said: "You can't expect people to stop using cars if there is nowhere warm to wait, or no toilets at a station.

"It is a big issue, especially in towns like these where so many people commute to Newport, Cardiff and Bristol.

"The Assembly needs to realise they have a terrible transport system."

A spokesman for the Assembly said: "The Assembly is committed to creating a world-class integrated transport system.

"The Transport (Wales) Act 2006, which received Royal Assent last week, gives the Welsh Assembly the powers to plan a more co-ordinated and integrated transport system for Wales. As a result, the Assembly will be able to support the provision of public transport services."

A spokeswoman for Network Rail, which oversees the provision of facilities at stations, said: "We are happy to work with the train operator on the issues in question and come to any appropriate solutions."