Expanded Newquay rail services begin as Mid Cornwall Metro launches first phase

The first phase of the new services started operating on Sunday, providing what rail operator Great Western Railway described as “the best train service on the line since the 1960s”.

Fifteen local trains now operate between Par and Newquay from Monday to Friday, with 14 services on Saturdays and eight on Sundays.

Direct summer services between London Paddington railway station and Newquay are also being reinstated, taking the total number of weekday services to 17.

Funded by Cornwall Council and the UK Government, Mid Cornwall Metro is a £57m investment aimed at improving rail links between Newquay, St Austell, Truro and Falmouth/Penryn.

The scheme is designed to create what GWR describe as a sustainable transport corridor through central Cornwall, helping residents better connect to employment, education and key services.

Matt Barnes, Head of Strategic Service Development at Great Western Railway, said: “The start of the Mid Cornwall Metro is a landmark moment, not just for the branch line, but for Cornwall as a whole.

“We know from experience the difference a step change in train services can make, whether that's through more frequent services or new stations.”

The project has faced opposition from some local businesses over the active travel elements of the scheme around Newquay railway station.

Plans include the removal of short-stay parking spaces on Cliff Road to create improved walking and cycling links.

Opponents argued the loss of 18 roadside spaces could affect trade along the road.

However, a report to Cornwall Council’s cabinet member for transport said the wider scheme would result in a net gain of 58 parking spaces overall, with most of the additional capacity coming from an expanded Tolcarne Car Park, which is set to provide 66 extra spaces.