Signs of Marsh Barton station emerge

VISIBLE signs are now evident of the construction of a new station at Marsh Barton, south of Exeter.

The station, which will cost around £16m, will be situated between Exeter St Thomas and Starcross, have two platforms 400 feet in length and be able to handle five-car trains. Its location will serve the

1.2 sq mile Marsh Barton trading estate. Construction of the station is on Clapperbrook Lane East.

Work originally started in 2017, but while clearing the vegetation Slow Worms – a protected species – were discovered and work ceased. In addition to the Covid-19 pandemic, a further delay ensued after planning consent expired and had to be reapplied for.

At the beginning of October, work on the platform foundations was visible, and local signage indicates an opening in winter 2022.

■ Our thanks to David Hunt for the information in this story,

DAVID HUNT GWR Class 150 units Nos. 150244 and 150234 pass the construction site of Marsh Barton station on October 7, forming the 13.23 Exmouth to Paignton train.