Train services have resumed on the Newquay branch line with a second platform in use for the first time in nearly four decades. The milestone, reached today (Tuesday 18 November), follows an extended period of engineering work led by Network Rail and marks a significant step towards the launch of the Mid Cornwall Metro project.

Newquay station, on Cornwall’s north coast, has operated with only one platform since October 1987 when the local signal box closed. The return of two operational platforms has been made possible through the installation of digital signalling, restoring infrastructure that has been out of use for 38 years.

The upgrade clears the way for an hourly service between Newquay and Par from next year, more than doubling the current offering on the branch line. A direct coast-to-coast connection linking Newquay with Falmouth—via Par, St Austell and Truro—is set to follow.

Digital signalling controlled at Goonbarrow signal box has replaced the historical “token” method, where train drivers received a physical token from the signaller to ensure only one train travelled on the single-track section at any time.

As part of the Mid Cornwall Metro works, the second platform at Newquay has been completely rebuilt and new track installed. A passing loop at Goss Moor now allows trains to pass each other, track has been renewed near St Blazey, and major refurbishment has been completed on the 152-year-old Ponts Mill viaduct, which carries the line over the River Par.

The Mid Cornwall Metro programme is funded by the Government and Cornwall Council, and delivered by Network Rail in partnership with the council and GWR.

Bogan Lupu, Network Rail industry programme director, said:

“This is fantastic news for passengers in Cornwall. The completion of this work paves the way for a huge increase in journeys to Newquay and will bring some of the county’s largest places closer together. We’re sorry for the disruption while the work took place but its legacy will provide a boost to the local economy and the environment.”

Matthew Barnes, GWR head of strategic service development, said:

“These upgrades make the track and signalling improvements necessary for us to provide more, and better, services. This paves the way for us to run our first Mid Cornwall Metro trains which will provide coast-to-coast connectivity between Newquay and Falmouth via Par and St Austell. Now that works are complete we will continue to progress improvements to the train service; the first step will see us double frequency on the line between Newquay and Par, followed by the start of coast-to-coast services at a later date.”

Image: Network Rail