The first Mid Cornwall Metro services started this morning, with locals welcoming the new enhanced train service.
Trains will run hourly between Newquay and Par, doubling the previous timetable and will be the most frequent service in more than 60 years.
A full service will start next year, with direct trains between Newquay and Falmouth via Par, St Austell and Truro.
This is thanks to a £57m project, funded by Cornwall Council and the UK Government, with work including restoring a second platform at Newquay station, a passing loop at Goss Moor, digital signalling and refurbishment of the 153 year old Ponts Mill Viaduct.
“Now, having a consistent hourly service, it’s going to make the train the easy way to travel into Newquay, which means we’re going to be busier for longer. People can stay later. It’s a win-win for businesses, for locals, for tourists.”
Mark Warren, manager of Newquay Business Improvement District
“We’re thrilled to have reached this important milestone in delivering Mid Cornwall Metro. The upgrades we’ve completed mean we can run more frequent and more reliable services, helping to better connect communities and support local economic growth.”
Chris Fuoco, Network Rail’s Western route programme director for Devon and Cornwall
Responses
It’s good to see that Great Western Railway that are using the Class 175 on the Mid Cornwall metro services in Cornwall. Since the Class 175 were cascaded from Transport for Wales.