PLANS for the reopening of a direct railway line between Stonehouse and Bristol are steaming ahead.

Stroud MP Neil Carmichael met with transport officials from Gloucestershire County Council (GCC) on Monday to discuss proposals for the re-electrification of the disused line.

It is hoped the re-opening of the old Bristol Road Stonehouse Station will allow commuters to travel directly from Stroud to Bristol and Birmingham.

Currently passengers have to change trains at either Gloucester or Swindon.

Bringing together stakeholders for dialogue at Shire Hall, Mr Carmichael set out an economic case for re-opening the disused station, and outlined plans to contact Network Rail for further discussions.

Among the officials involved were Nigel Riglar, Commissioning Director for Communities and Infrastructure and Simon Excell, GCC‘s Lead Commissioner for Strategic Infrastructure.

Mr Carmichael said: “Re-opening the Bristol, Stonehouse railway station will be a vital factor in the growth and economic success of Stroud Valleys and Vale, enabling more people to take up opportunities and gain from the economic powerhouses of Bristol and Birmingham.

“During my discussions and meetings with my constituents it is clear to me that many residents want to see the line re-opened and I will continue my efforts to lead this plan to a successful conclusion.”

The reactivation of the railway line was one of Mr Carmichael’s key election pledges.