Reopening
Recently, the Welsh Assembly Government has asked Network Rail to conduct feasibility studies on two former track stretches in Wales, one of those being the line from Bangor to Llangefni. Councillor Clive McGregor is optimistic this could provide an economic stimulus for Anglesey, along with further proposals to extend passenger traffic between Llangefni and Amlwch. Network Rail has already begun work on gathering evidence for its study, beginning with cutting away vegetation on track sections to examine the condition of rails and track bedding. Its report is expected to be published next year, before any business cases to reopen the lines can be developed.
The study, which started in January 2011, is currently assessing the condition of the line between Gaerwen and Llangefni. The track, bridges, associated earthworks, and the station at Llangefni are currently being examined by engineers in order to decide whether they are still fit for purpose, or will need to be updated. With the alignment having succumbed to heavy encroachment from vegetation, an environmental report will have to be drawn up to decrease the potential damage that could be caused to wildlife. Mike Gallop, coordinating the project on behalf of Network Rail, warned that bringing back trains to the line would be "tough".
The remainder of the line, between Llangefni and Amlwch, looks set to be preserved as a heritage railway, with Network Rail giving license to Anglesey Central Railway Limited to begin clearing the overgrown line north of Llangefni. ACR Limited have also opened a cafe and heritage centre in Llanerchymedd's station building.
Read more about this topic: Anglesey Central Railway