Metro rail project 'best service since steam days'

A £50m project to improve rail links to Newquay has been hailed as "the best service since the steam days".

The Mid Cornwall Metro service will run direct hourly trains between Newquay and Par from 17 May after a 400m "passing loop" at Goss Moor and a second platform at Newquay have been installed.

Matt Barnes from Great Western Railway (GWR) said the route had not been developed since the age of steam trains and the improvements would be "a real step change" for Newquay's residents and visitors.

Direct routes between Newquay and Falmouth are due to begin next year.

The project has been funded by the government, Cornwall Council and the rail sector.

Cornwall Council cabinet member for transport Dan Rogerson said the service would offer "a real option" to using cars.

"Newquay is the largest single town in Cornwall so it's absolutely right we provide people with opportunities that don't rely on roads," he added.

Richard Burningham, a manager of the Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership, said he hoped people would "take a fresh look at rail travel".

He said he thought the more frequent direct trains would "make it easier for people to come and send money in the town's businesses".

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