Progress on Devon Train Services

Adrian Sanders MP met with the new head of First Great Western, Mark Hopwood, yesterday to discuss the future of rail services in the South West.

Mr Hopwood was hopeful that progress is now being made.  Following a recent campaign, larger trains will now be introduced over the next 2-3 years on the Torbay to Exeter routes, especially at peak times, to reduce overcrowding.  Hopefully 4 carriage trains will replace the 2 carriage trains FGW currently runs.

There was also hope that the prospect for electrification and high speed rail lines would be more thoroughly investigated over the coming months.  Such schemes could improve efficiency, speed and environmental impact as well as providing an opportunity to introduce high tech rolling stock.

Adrian also discussed the potential replacement of South West Trains services by FGW trains after 2009 when SW Trains no longer run services West of Exeter.

Adrian

commented: “Having met with the new managing director of First Great Western, I am convinced that they are fully on board with the need to provide a better rail service in Devon.  With new trains, the overcrowding problems on the Riviera line may soon be over and we may soon be able to think of the train as a realistic alternative to the car and short haul flights.”