Newquay MP calls on government to "future-proof" the rail network after storm disruption

Wednesday, 28 January 2026 06:00

Newquay MP Noah Law has joined Labour colleagues from across the South West in writing to the Minister for Rail following storm-related disruption to train services in the region.

Heavy rainfall forced the suspension of the Newquay to Par line once again on Saturday, with trains cancelled for a fifth consecutive day today.

In a letter to Lord Hendy, the MPs are calling on the government to future-proof the rail network and improve the resilience of what they describe as vital infrastructure, as extreme weather continues to impact services.

It comes as Network Rail and Great Western Railway advised passengers in Devon and Cornwall that heavy flooding is expected to affect train travel across the region for several days.

In a statement, Great Western Railway said passengers should not attempt to travel on a number of routes, including the Newquay to Par branch line.

The operator said poor road conditions mean rail replacement bus services cannot currently be provided on affected routes, although replacement services may be introduced if conditions improve.

GWR added that several branch lines are likely to remain closed for a number of days, with no rail services operating during that time.

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