ROYAL Mail's plans to change its mail distribution service from rail to road and air networks have disappointed county leaders who fear it could upset the Devon economy.

It was recently revealed by Royal Mail that it is considering withdrawal of its entire rail network of services for mail distribution by March 2004.

Devon County Council's executive recognised that while the rail industry has encountered many problems over the last two years, rail transport continues to be an important element of the transport system.

The county council's five year Local Transport Plan 'Devon on the Move' aims to increase the use of rail by both passengers and freight.

Councillor David Morrish, executive member for environment, said: "This decision could have considerable impact on the region's rail network. To keep open essential passenger lines they must have significant freight earnings.

"We must consider our rail network as an integrated system. It will not achieve its objections if it is subject to piecemeal decisions to the advantage of just one sector of the transport industry.

"It would also impact on road traffic as it would put more freight on the county's roads and exacerbate the problems with congestion."