Future of North Devon railways to be discussed

A 165% increase in passenger numbers Is behind Network Rail’s decision to ask residents about the future of the Exeter-Barnstaple branch.

Known as The Tarka Line, the 38.5-mile route, which carries 670,000 passengers, will have refurbished trains with air-conditioning and WiFi from summer 2018 ahead of an hourly weekday service being introduced in December next year.

NR, working with Great Western Railway, the Tarka Line Association, North District Council, Devon County Council and the Devon & Cornwall Rail Partnership to form a North Devon Line Strategy Group that will look to shape the line’s future.

People can take part at www.northdevonsurvey.com, and hard copies are available at Barnstaple.