The recent opening of a new railway station in rural Devon has sparked optimism regarding efforts to reconnect the West Somerset Railway (WSR) with Great Western Railway (GWR) mainline services, according to a local Somerset MP.
The West Somerset Railway operates between Bishop’s Lydeard, located just a few miles from Taunton, and Minehead. Along its route, it serves several quaint stations across west Somerset, including the coastal town of Watchet and the villages of Blue Anchor, Dunster and Williton.
Historically, there have been multiple initiatives aimed at reinstating a connection between the heritage railway and the mainline GWR services at Taunton. Notably, a trial linking service between Taunton and Bishop’s Lydeard took place during the summer of 2019.
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The railway attracts over 200,000 visitors annually, who come to experience nostalgic steam and diesel train journeys amid stunning Somerset countryside and coastal scenery. The 20-mile stretch features ten stations, providing ample opportunities for exploration.
Described as one of the South West England’s largest attractions, the WSR appeals to those interested in both a historic ride and the preservation of regional railway and industrial heritage.
Currently, the WSR is engaged in a 50-year fundraising campaign, reflecting on its origins in 1976 when volunteers and enthusiasts united to save the railway from closure. The appeal emphasises the need for essential investment to renew infrastructure, restore historic carriages and locomotives, and support the dedicated volunteers who sustain the operation.
In November 2024, Somerset Council and West Somerset Railway PLC jointly submitted a strategic outline business case (SOBC) to the Department for Transport (DfT), estimating that approximately £6 million is required to facilitate the reconnection improvements.
While the DfT has allowed the council to proceed with developing a full business case to restore services, it did not commit the necessary £137,000 funding needed for this next phase when confirming this in June.
Despite the lack of immediate financial support, Tiverton and Minehead MP Rachel Gilmour expressed cautious optimism. She highlighted the opening of Okehampton Interchange railway station, situated on Dartmoor National Park’s northern edge, in late July as a positive precedent.
Speaking at an event in Minehead, Mrs Gilmour conveyed confidence that government backing may follow, noting meetings with senior transport officials. She relayed advice from Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy to frame the business case around themes of social mobility and economic development, rather than merely requesting a new railway service.
Mrs Gilmour also acknowledged the continuity of Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander in the government cabinet under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, which she views as a favourable indicator for the initiative’s prospects.
“There is no objection to progressing the business case,” Mrs Gilmour stated, emphasising the need to transition from discussion to actionable investment plans.
She further highlighted the current Prime Minister’s commitment to investing in all regions across the UK, with particular focus on coastal and rural communities, aligning well with West Somerset’s needs.
As Parliament prepares to resume after the summer recess on 1 September, Mrs Gilmour intends to continue advocating for West Somerset, particularly during the forthcoming party conference season.
While maintaining a pragmatic outlook, she urged residents to remain hopeful, stressing the importance of securing funding and resolving scheduling details.
The council has yet to allocate the £137,000 needed for the full business case, though it remains a commitment within the local transport plan.
Reflecting on the road ahead, Mrs Gilmour remarked, “Given the Prime Minister’s determination to improve lives across the board, hopefully we will soon be rocking on.”