The plan to re-open railway stations in Cullompton and Wellington has moved one step closer to reality as the Government pledges to deliver rail improvements in the South West.

The government has announced funding-in-principle to restore railway services, which will see stations reopen and reintroduce rail passenger services to Cullompton and Wellington. This announcement is part of 11 national projects, which also includes the reopening of the Tavistock-Plymouth line.

Both stations closed in 1964. However, both towns have grown in population since then and are the largest settlements unserved by a rail station between Exeter and Taunton.

Welcoming the Government announcement of funding for the reopening of the Cullompton Railway Station, scheduled to open within two years, Councillor Steven Keable, Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Regeneration, said:

“This significant jig saw piece for the future of Cullompton can happen in 2025 and we now urge the Government to formally confirm funding and get spades in the ground. This announcement rewards the local community for their hard work over a number of years.

“The new station will deliver enhanced connectivity for existing and future residents with plans for hourly services across the network. Coupled with other strategic planned intervention including the planned town centre relief road and upgraded Junction 28, this will deliver the required level of infrastructure to accommodate future plans for growth.

“Without this suite of planned interventions, the Culm Garden Village, to the east of the M5, will not be able to provide the planned local new homes and extensive community facilities, nor will Cullompton see the levelling up opportunities pledged by the government.”

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For more information about the project, please visit the Council’s website:

www.middevon.gov.uk/cullompton-train-station