Plans to reintroduce train services from Tavistock received a major boost last October, when the government agreed to back plans to reinstate five-miles of track between Tavistock and Bere Alston.
Along with restoring the line, originally cut by Beeching in the 1960s, the scheme also includes a new single platform station at Tavistock. Once up and running, the new hourly Tavistock to Plymouth service will not only link the town with the rest of the south west, it will reduce traffic on local as well as regional roads, cut emissions and help tackle climate change.
Now the new line has government backing, it’s essential that it’s full steam ahead and not shunted into a siding. That’s why pro-growth campaign group Britain Remade is championing the scheme to restore the track as quickly as possible.
As part of the campaign, the group, which wants to see the time it takes to build transport infrastructure slashed, is bringing together local people, politicians, and businesses for a public meeting to discuss how pressure can be kept up on the government so they deliver what has been promised.
“It’s clear that the Beeching cuts of the ‘60s were far too severe; they isolated communities, and made towns and villages more car dependent. But I’m delighted that campaigners in Tavistock, after years of tireless work, have been able to secure funding to reinstate the track,” said Sam Richards, the founder of Britain Remade.
As part of the campaign, Britain Remade is keen to hear from as many local people as possible and is holding a public meeting at Tavistock Town Hall on Wednesday, April 24, from 7pm to 8pm.
“Campaigners have done an absolute cracking job of getting the government to back restoring the line and the money to build it along with a new station.
“But it’s now critical that ministers remain committed to this project and that there is no backsliding on their commitment, a great way to stop this is by showing there is still strong support for the rail line amongst local people.
“That's why we're urging everyone who supports it to come along to our public meeting at Tavistock Town Hall on the 24th and demonstrate their support.
“From clean energy projects to new transport links, the infrastructure that Britain desperately needs to deliver growth and jobs is being held back by red-tape, dithering and delays by ministers. If the government is serious about boosting the economy, they should start by overhauling the planning system so spades can get into the ground far quicker.”
