Plans to reopen railway stations in Wellington and Cullompton have received a significant boost after Transport Minister Simon Lightwood reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the proposals. During a recent debate in Westminster Hall, Lightwood emphasized that the strategic case for both stations remains strong, despite the closure of the Restoring Your Railway programme last summer.
Liberal Democrat MP Gideon Amos, who represents Taunton and Wellington and has spearheaded the campaign alongside fellow south-west MP Richard Foord, welcomed the minister’s remarks. Local support for the project is mounting—last month, a delegation of 30 regional supporters delivered letters to Rail Minister Lord Hendy, backed by cross-party MPs and Wellington Town Council, highlighting the economic and social benefits of restoring the rail links.
In his Commons statement, Simon Lightwood outlined the broader advantages of reopening the stations: “The strategic objectives for building both stations are clear. Beyond benefiting Cullompton and Wellington, improved public transport connectivity will drive economic growth and productivity across Exeter, Taunton, and Bridgwater, while also reducing road congestion, car dependency, and carbon emissions.”
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He further noted, “The stations would support sustainable development by linking new residential areas to employment, education, and healthcare opportunities across the region. Taking a combined approach to reopening both stations offers significantly higher value for money compared with pursuing either station alone.”
Lightwood concluded by recognizing the project as “a strategic investment in the future” of these communities and affirmed its alignment with government priorities to boost economic growth, reduce environmental impact, and enhance social mobility.
Gideon Amos highlighted the strong economic case for the reopening. “With an estimated cost of £42 million, the project is projected to generate £180 million in regional economic growth. There is no other rail initiative in the south-west ready for construction within the next two years as this one, which is well advanced in planning.”
He added that setbacks had delayed progress: “Had the July 2023 review not paused the project, construction would already be underway—the contract was nearly finalized, and detailed designs were almost complete.”
Reflecting on local advocacy efforts, Amos praised the role of Wellington residents and local councilors in influencing government support. “Their visit to Parliament made a compelling case to the minister. Together with wider MP backing, we are pushing for funding to be confirmed in the upcoming government spending review before the summer recess.”
He said the ideal outcome would be an official green light for the stations as part of that review but stressed ongoing determination: “Even if not immediately approved, the case for reopening remains irrefutable. My campaign will intensify—defeat is not an option for our communities.”