Business leaders hold north Wales transport summit

Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns says transport is key to economic growth

Business leaders have met on Deeside to discuss opportunities for economic growth.

The Transport Summit saw businesses, the transport industry and Welsh government consider ways to improve infrastructure and cross-border links.

Rail electrification, the impact of HS2 on north Wales and improving the road network were discussed on Friday.

Wales Officer minister Alun Cairns said: "Transport plays a significant role in the economic plan."

'Economic powerhouse'

He added: "We have to realise south Wales is getting millions of pounds worth of investment for the electrification of rail there.

"It's important we talk about the 'economic powerhouse of the north' and ensure the north of Wales is part of that."

Speaking after the conference, chief executive of the Llandrillo Menai Group Glyn Jones said: "There's a great deal of interest in the electrification of rail across north Wales and into Liverpool and Manchester."

A Welsh government consultation is already under way to look at ways of improving road and transport links throughout the country.