AMBITIOUS plans to construct a light railway between Weymouth and Portland got a boost today as a campaign was launched to take it forward.

Portland town councillor Richard Denton-White believes the line would relieve congestion and support economic prosperity.

He has accused 'roads-obsessed' planners of 'lacking vision' by not supporting the Jurassic Coast Railways scheme.

He was particularly dismayed to see a rail link not included in Osprey Quay regeneration plans unveiled by the South West Regional Development Agency (Swrda) and Sutton Harbour Group last week.

Coun Denton-White wants to organise a public meeting and urges people to add their names to a database so he can get an idea of who is on board.

He said: "While welcoming the new jobs promised by Sutton Harbour Group I was dismayed that no mention was made of the proposed light rail project.

"Portland is served by only one road on to the island.

"There must be alternative public transport infrastructure to ensure that people can get to and from these new jobs and leisure facilities.

"A light rail line would certainly help to relieve the pressure on roads in this borough."

Coun Denton-White said all transport alternatives should be explored in the run-up to the 2012 Olympics of which Weymouth and Portland will play a significant part.

A light railway is required to bring local planners and elected politicians into the 21st century, he suggests.

But head of operations for Swrda's Dorset office Bruce Voss said: "We believe there are better ways of dealing with transport issues between Weymouth and Portland including the Weymouth Relief Road, which we support, and investment in public transport to ensure we have the infrastructure in place to improve movement around the area."

Jurassic Coast Railways director Nigel Ewens said: "We appreciate the help and support Richard is giving the project.

"The indications are that a significant number of people support the idea of a rail link.

"Something has to be done because Portland is effectively a cul-de-sac with one road serving all these developments.

"There can only ever be one road and the only alternative is a railway."

To support Coun Denton-White's On Track database, email richard@people-first.org.uk or write to him at 94 Fortuneswell, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1LR.