e-petition launched to re-open Okehampton-Tavistock rail link

An enterprising individual, one Chris Bligh, has set up an e-petition asking for the rail link between Okehampton and Tavistock to be re-opened. If 100,000 people sign it in the next year, the subject could be debated in the House of Commons.

But more to the point, our various potential railway plans should at least come under a degree of government scrutiny, giving then a better chance of success.

The text of the petition reads:

Call to reopen Okehampton-Tavistock Railway

Responsible department: Department for Transport

This Petition recognises the plan to reopen the rail line between Bere Alston and Tavistock. However this leaves 15.5 miles between Tavistock and Okehampton. This is a useful diversionary route and would help to increase capacity between Exeter and Plymouth.

With only a few modifications at Bere Alston and Yeoford only a single track need be laid between Tavistock and Okehampton enabling an hourly service in each direction. This would be money well spent. I call on the Government to invest in this proposal, possibly with the help of Private Finance.

To sign the petiton, click here