Franchise row could delay end of 'old and tired railway'

A £1bn funding row could lead to a rushed job in getting the "right deal" for the future rail network in Wales, a leading transport expert has warned.

The UK government has threatened to put bids for the Wales and Borders franchise on hold amid a dispute with the Welsh Government.

But Prof Stuart Cole said any delay could leave ministers just three months to secure the right deal.

He said the public would fear a delay to improvements in an "old and tired railway".