03.07.14
Signalling, depot and rolling stock improvements for Cornwall
The government has announced upgrades to train services costing £146.6m to improve train services – and tourism – in Cornwall.
Most of the money – £103.5m – comes from Network Rail, but there are also contributions from the DfT, the local authority and LEP, and First Great Western.
Signalling upgrades begin Penzance and Totnes will start five years earlier than planned allowing half-hourly services on the Cornish Main Line, the Long Rock depot at Penzance will be expanded, and the Night Riviera Sleeper trains’ interiors will be overhauled.
Prime minister David Cameron said: “This investment, which will boost the local economy and improve connectivity, is great news for Cornwall, the South West and beyond.”
Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin added: “Rail travel in Cornwall is growing rapidly, and investing in the rail network here is crucial to securing long-term economic growth.”
Passenger numbers in the county are growing twice as fast as the national average, the DfT said.
Bert Biscoe, Cornwall Council’s cabinet member for transportation, said: “Enhancing the main line signalling in Cornwall is just as important as dualling the A30 and building the Tamar Bridge in keeping Cornwall connected.”
More information about the improvements here.
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(All images Crown Copyright. Photography: Paul Shaw)