KEN Skates, the Welsh Government’s transport minister, has visited Llanrwst to see the repair work taking place to the damaged Conwy Valley railway line.

Significant flooding, caused by a combination of high tides and Storm Gareth in March, affected six miles of track, causing “severe” damage to the railway resulting in its closure until it can be fixed.

Mr Skates was told there are 40 individual defects with eight crossings and two stations affected.

Network Rail is working to reopen the line ahead of this summer’s National Eisteddfod which is taking place in Llanrwst. Contractors are currently repairing all sections and rebuilding damaged embankments and culverts.

Much of the washed out material has now been removed to be recycled at Penmaenmawr Quarry.

Mr Skates said: “I have seen first-hand how the extreme weather conditions we experienced in March have caused extensive damage to the Conwy Valley line.

“This is a vital railway line and although it is the responsibility UK Government to carry out repairs, I know Network Rail and Transport for Wales are working closely and doing their upmost to keep passengers moving whilst significant restorations take place.

“Network Rail is also working closely with Natural Resources Wales to ensure the line is more resilient to any future floods.

“I am pleased regular community meetings are taking place to keep residents and passengers up-to-date with progress and work continues at pace to open the line before this year’s National Eisteddfod.

James Price, Transport for Wales CEO said: “We are glad to see that our partners in Network Rail are progressing with restoration work on the Conwy Valley line.

“We understand the importance of this line and are committed to keep the people of Wales moving with rail replacement buses during the closure.

Bill Kelly, route managing director, Network Rail Wales and Borders said: “We recognise the importance of this railway to passengers and the local community.

“We have made good progress on site and we are continuing to work hard to re-open the section between Llandudno and Llanrwst in early summer, ahead of the National Eisteddfod to ensure we can move passengers to this very important event.”