AN URGENT call has been put forward to protect key rail services from Severn Beach, which are due to end in nine months.

Half-hourly rail services from Severn Beach are due to end in December. 

Luke Hall MP has urged the Department for Transport to extend the service, stating that losing it would be "hugely detrimental" to the area.

It comes as Mr Hall recently met with the Minister of State for Transport, Huw Merriman MP last week. 

The Thornbury and Yate MP said he also spoke about the importance of the railway network to the local economy, as well as ongoing efforts to reduce traffic congestion. 

Mr Hall said: “Half hourly trains from Severn Beach are absolutely crucial for the community, and to lose these services would be hugely detrimental not just to the local economy but would severely impact many residents and the most vulnerable members of our community.”

“I have called on the government to take urgent action to keep these services going. 

“I have asked that renewed funding is announced without delay, to ensure these services continue without interruption.”

Mr Hall also stated he has urged the Department for Transport to protect the half-hourly services between Yate and Bristol - which were introduced in May last year. 

The MP also stated he received an update about the nearby Charfield Railway Station. 

He said the government expects construction to reopen Charfield station beginning in 2025/26, with the grand reopening set for 2027.

Gazette Series: Luke Hall MP meeting with the Minister of State for Transport Huw Merriman MPLuke Hall MP meeting with the Minister of State for Transport Huw Merriman MP (Image: Luke Hall MP)