Could main line services again run to Kingswear?

TWO Conservative MPs have pooled their efforts to reopen two stations on the Dartmouth Steam Railway to main line traffic.

Anthony Mangnall (Totnes) and Kevin Foster (Torbay) want to create new transport opportunities for local people. They also want to enable passengers from London to travel directly to Kingswear.

Under the Government’s Restoring Your Railway Fund announced last year, grant aid is being made available for feasibility studies into reopening lines and stations.

Proposals

The Department for Transport says it will fund 75% of costs up to £50,000 for successful proposals to help fund transport and economic studies and create a business case.

The line was part of the BR network until November 1, 1972, when it was transferred to private ownership and became a heritage line.

The MPs have launched a public survey into their proposals. It can be accessed at Mr Mangnall’s website, www.anthonymangnall. co.uk, or by telephoning 0207 219 5579.

Reopening

Mr Mangnall has also called for the main line station at South Brent, once the junction for the GWR Kingsbridge branch, to reopen.

“Reopening these two stations will stimulate the local economy, reduce air pollution, help commuters and tourism, and improve transport links,” he said. “In order to submit a strong proposal, it is vital that we gain community support and gauge the views of residents on these proposals.

“If there is a positive response, then we will put together a working group and submit a proposal to the Government in early March.”