They have also been discussing their ambitions for a light railway network linking the city centre to the new town development in Sherford.

The idea, which was in the Conservative group's vision for transport in Plymouth, is now being looked at by the city's Labour administration.

Councillors supporting the scheme say the plans are realistic.

Sue Dann, the city councillor responsible for transport matters, said: "We know that if we can re-open that line it could become a strategic commuter route between Plymouth and the whole of that area.

"We are interested and we are working to ensure that we support any bids that go in to try to get money to maintain land usage for any railway line in the future."