£50 Million Investment Transforms Cornwall's Public Transport

Cornwall is on the brink of a public transport revolution with a £50 million government investment set to dramatically enhance the region's connectivity. The mid-Cornwall Metro Scheme, buoyed by this substantial financial boost, promises a future of more frequent and modern rail services, knitting together key Cornish communities more closely than ever before.

During a pivotal visit to Newquay Station on March 27, 2024, Transport Secretary Mark Harper, alongside local dignitaries including St Austell and Newquay MP Steve Double, delved into the progress of this transformative project. Their discussions focused on the substantial benefits the scheme will deliver, heralding a new era for Cornwall's transport landscape.

The mid-Cornwall Metro Scheme is not just a promise for the future but a blueprint for immediate improvement. By May next year, the initial perks of the project will start to materialize, aiming for full completion by the end of 2025. This ambitious timeline envisions a new hourly coast-to-coast train service that will seamlessly connect Cornwall’s largest urban areas, including Newquay, St Austell, Truro, and Falmouth.

Key infrastructure enhancements are central to the scheme’s success. Notably, the Newquay rail line will see the addition of a second platform at Newquay station and an extra 'passing loop' on the tracks. These upgrades are crucial for increasing capacity and facilitating the operation of additional services. Moreover, passengers are set to benefit from the adoption of modern digital ticketing solutions, enabling a hassle-free 'tap-in' and 'tap-out' system that ensures the best fare without the need for prior planning.

The scheme's broader implications extend beyond the convenience of travel. By encouraging active travel, it aims to foster a healthier, more sustainable mode of movement in and around Cornish stations. Planned improvements include new cycling and walking paths, enhanced cycle parking, bike hire options, and upgraded pedestrian crossings.