Daily train service from Okehampton to Exeter could be running by late May

By Richard_Penny | Monday, March 29, 2010, 16:20

38 years after the line closed for passenger traffic, plans are now well developed to run a six-train-a-day service between Okehampton and Exeter - from as soon as May 23rd.

Trains could soon be running daily to and from Okehampton's beautifully-restored station

Devon and Cornwall Railways (DCR) want to launch the service - at their own cost - with trains running every 90 minutes and stopping at Sampford Courtenay, Crediton, Exeter St David's, with some services going on to Exeter Central and St James Park.

For those who have campaigned for daily trains, this will be a dream come true. As reported here at Okehampton People, there has always been enthusiasm in the town, but the obstacles in the way of the service seemed too difficult to overcome.

DCR is hoping that the service will be far more than a tourist attraction and will be used by commuters and shoppers. With ample car-parking at Okehampton Station, the train should, they hope, prove a popular - and environmental - choice.

Final approval for the planned new service is needed from the Office of Rail Regulations, and DCR will require a train operator's licence and safety certification.

More about the plans - plus archive film - here. (BBC)

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Comments

I would use it to do a weekly work trip to and from Exeter and at other times. I live in Shebbear so it would halve my driving distance.

By wrig3463 at 12:49 on 13/04/10
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interesting, hope it actually happens. I'd consider using it as a cycle and ride service.

By UniSZ at 21:31 on 12/04/10
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Re the comment about a bus or train leaving Exeter after 5.30pm - currently there are three - two at 5.45pm (a First X9 running down the A30, and a Western Greyhound 510 which runs along the old A30 and takes about 10 minutes longer), plus there is a Western Greyhound 599 at 6.30pm. Also on Friday and Saturday evenings there is a First X9 at 8.30pm too.

A Western Greyhound weekly ticket only costs £19 between Okehampton and Exeter and works out far cheaper than the fuel costs of running a car five days a week between Oke and Exeter. If you do not work in the centre of Exeter there is a £22 version that allows you to use Stagecoach buses within their "Exeter Megarider" area in the city to get from the city centre to and from your place of work (it is also valid on the Park and Ride services run by Stagecoach).

By chairmanchad at 10:33 on 31/03/10
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it would be great to have a bus or train run from exeter to okehampton after 5.30 p.m!!

By nicismeg at 19:43 on 29/03/10
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Great news and should be a boost for the local economy!

By A_McCormack at 17:18 on 29/03/10
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