Somerset Council has confirmed that the vision to establish a new railway station serving the towns of Somerton and Langport remains “on the horizon” despite recent government funding setbacks.
The initiative faced a major hurdle after the government’s decision in July 2024 to scrap the “Restoring Your Railway” fund, which had supported feasibility studies and development of new rail connections. This move came shortly after the last general election and halted immediate financial support for the project.
Earlier consultations as part of Somerset’s new local transport plan outlined ambitions to improve public transport, including bus services, walking and cycling infrastructure, and rail connectivity within the county. The council is now preparing further strategic plans that will strengthen the case for improved rail access in the area.
Councillor Henry Hobhouse, representing Castle Cary and nearby villages, emphasized the rising demand for rail services, citing the doubling of the car park at Castle Cary railway station and increased passenger numbers. Speaking at a council climate and place scrutiny committee meeting on November 19, he stressed the need to progress a new station between Taunton and Castle Cary, a 30-mile stretch currently lacking rail infrastructure.
Historically, both Somerton and Langport had rail service on the Taunton to Castle Cary line until their stations were closed in the mid-1960s due to the Beeching cuts. In May 2021, funding for a feasibility study—supported by South Somerset District Council, local councils, and a government grant—was secured to explore reopening a station for both communities.
The Langport Transport Group produced a strategic outline business case submitted to the Department for Transport in February 2022. However, follow-up engagement stalled during a period of political changes before the cancellation of the vital funding scheme under the current administration.
Matthew Prince, Somerset Council’s transport policy officer, highlighted ongoing efforts to develop an integrated connectivity plan that supplements the local transport plan. This will focus on encouraging rail usage through existing stations and advocating for new ones, addressing Somerset’s notably low number of railway stations—currently just seven or eight.
“Getting Network Rail to deliver new stations isn’t easy, but it’s certainly on our horizon,” Prince stated. The plan will consider infrastructure needs over the next 25 to 30 years to build a comprehensive case for government investment.
The local transport plan is scheduled for detailed committee discussion on December 10 and full council approval on December 17.
Meanwhile, representatives from the Langport Transport Group have reported productive discussions with the council. David Northey, the group’s spokesperson, shared that their recent presentation highlighting options for funding, services, and a “Network Somerset” model—similar to the “Devon Metro”—was well received. This vision could connect key towns like Frome, Yeovil, Taunton, and Bridgwater, offering better integration of existing rail lines and the possibility of new stations for Somerton and Langport.