The Mid Devon District Council faces a setback as government withdraws funding for reopening two train stations.
- Funds for Cullompton and Wellington stations, promised under the Restoring Your Railway fund, are cancelled.
- Council residents showed disappointment, calling the project vital for local infrastructure and housing.
- Efforts to mitigate vehicular dependency in the region suffer a blow due to this funding cut.
- The council remains hopeful and is exploring ways to reverse the decision or gain clarity on future infrastructure plans.
The government has rescinded promised funds for the reopening of Cullompton and Wellington train stations, a decision that has met with disappointment from the Mid Devon District Council. These funds were initially sanctioned under the Restoring Your Railway fund, with a strategic aim to enhance connectivity along the Bristol–Exeter corridor.
Both stations were originally closed as part of the Beeching report in 1964, leaving a significant gap in regional rail services. In a bid to restore these essential links, a collaboration in May 2020 between the Mid Devon District Council and local entities secured a £50,000 grant from the Department for Transport. This funding was pivotal in developing the Strategic Outline Business Case necessary for the stations’ reopening.
In 2022, Network Rail took over the project leadership, with the government later agreeing in principle to funding the revival of these railway services. A comprehensive business case was slated for submission this spring, marking a critical step towards materialising the project. The abrupt withdrawal of funding has thus stalled progress, leaving the council to reconsider its strategy.
Despite this setback, the Mid Devon District Council has expressed its unwavering commitment to the project. Officials are currently seeking possible avenues to either reverse the funding decision or at least obtain a clear understanding of the new government’s infrastructure assistance plans. The council’s statement highlighted its dedication to addressing the broader infrastructure needs of the region, particularly those connected to housing development.
The reopening of the stations is considered crucial not only for reducing dependency on vehicular transport but also in relieving pressure on M5 junction 28. Devon County Council’s earlier assurance to lobby for a second M5 junction and bridge near Cullompton underscores the regional importance of these projects. The combined efforts are seen as instrumental in facilitating the planned Culm Garden Village.
Statements from Mid Devon District Council deputy leaders further reveal a strategy to engage with local MPs and authority partners to re-align government priorities towards funding critical infrastructure. The potential to assist national housing delivery objectives makes the project’s justification even more significant in the political landscape.
The Mid Devon District Council continues to seek solutions following the government’s funding withdrawal, hoping to secure vital infrastructure support.
