AMBITIOUS plans for a Metro tram and train system that will change the face of transport in south East Wales have been revealed, with a map showing how the Vale fits into the proposals.

A Metro map showing how stations will connect if the plans come to fruition, details how every major station in the area will link up, through the Vale and beyond to Merthyr Tydfil and the valleys.

The Welsh Government has launched a campaign to raise awareness of the Metro project today (Monday, November 30) with First Minister Carwyn Jones calling it "more than just a transport project".

He said: "The Metro project represents the future of public transport in south east Wales which will provide faster journey times and more frequent services covering a greater area.

“It is an ambitious project linking people and jobs across South Wales in a fast, efficient and environmentally positive way.

“The Metro is far more than just a transport project. It will be a catalyst for transforming the economic and social prospects of south east Wales and the country as a whole.”

Vale resident and leader of the Welsh Conservatives Andrew RT Davies said that the project requires more clarity.

"The Metro must be more than just colourful lines on a publicity campaign’s map," he said.

"We need further clarity on how the scheme will work in practice and how gaps in service throughout the Vale of Glamorgan will be filled.

“With recent mixed claims about how much a relief road will cost, Labour’s lack of transparency on the M4 is an example of how they approach infrastructure projects.

“We need more leadership on the introduction of a Metro system if its benefits are ever to be fully realised for residents in the Vale.

“It’s thanks to the UK Government’s commitment to electrify Welsh railtrack – the biggest investment in our railways since the Victorian age – that this is possible.

“Without it, a metro system simply couldn’t happen.”