With the recent openings of Pontyclun and Llanharan stations, the petitioners want the old mineral line running from Pontyclun, closed in 1952, to be reinstated.

That’s in line with proposals outlined by the South East Wales Transport Alliance which would see four stations linked to Cardiff.

Not only would the track provide Beddau and Tynant with fast transport, but it would also run parallel to the Church Village bypass – a plan already supported by rail consultants.

Terence Llewellyn, who lives at Woodland Road, Beddau, started the petition in the villages after his ideas met with interest.

He said: “At the moment the line is just sitting there, an eyesore of a disused railway track, when it could be the ideal link for the valley.

“There is also ample ground at the old coal yard at Tynant for a small station to be built and sufficient space for a car park. I ask myself why is Beddau and Tynant always the last to get any modern road and rail links?”

“Local AMs and central government are forever telling the public to get out of their cars and use public transport to save this otherwise doomed planet of ours, and this is a great opportunity.”

The line runs from Cwm Colliery all the way to Pontyclun, and has a long history as a link for the valleys.

Existing as a subsidiary of Taff Vale railway, it was used to transport Cwm Colliery’s coal and limestone at first, before being also used as a passenger line from 1875 to 1952.

The route’s usefulness for the future was also recognised by South East Wales Transport Alliance (SEWTA), which works with 10 local authorities on rail and bus links.

In a report published on rail strategy for the next 10 years, SEWTA said the new system at Cardiff Central will “allow more trains to turn back in the platforms to avoid shunting and crossing movements.”

One of its key proposals is to re-open the Beddau line with four more stations on the branch, which it is estimated will cost £1m.

Talbot Green, Llantrisant, Gwaun Meisgyn and Beddau would have stations to catch the half-hourly service, and it would run parallel to the Church Village Bypass.

Councillor Richard Yeo said the petition should help make the SEWTA plans a reality.

He said: “I think it would be such a good link for the area. The line is just sitting there, and the A4119 has been earmarked for a projected line.

“We need as many people as possible to sign the petition, with enough support it may be possible to get the railway back.”

The petition is available at the Beddau Spar, Bosley’s Newsagents and Beddau Post Office.