Great Western Coffee Shop

http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/gwentnews/11430118._/?

Looks encouraging for both the completion of the extension to Ebbw Vale town (Spring 15)  and the dualling to enable a half hourly service (2016). What's still to be decided is whether the second service will run to Cardiff or Newport. Personally I'd be very disappointed if it runs direct to Cardiff, as effectively the current service up the valley is useless for journeys to Newport and Bristol, given the time penalty of going via Cardiff (for longer journeys eg London I suspect the time penalty is less of an issue.)  So going to Newport will create a lot of additional commuting opportunities, and given the number of services between Newport and Cardiff, will also enhance the service to Cardiff, albeit to a lesser extent than a direct service would do.

Dont Forget Pye Corner station is on track for opening this December.

I do think a direct service  to Newport would be better than a 2nd service to Cardiff Central although 2tph to Cardiff does some operational merits especially if the Ebbw Vale and Maesteg branches are electrified.