LOCAL people will have more say in how their railway services are run as the Government hands over more responsibility to local rail experts.
The 32-mile route between Westbury and Swindon, known as the TransWilts line is now a community rail service, the rail minister Paul Maynard has announced.
A new community rail plan will see TransWilts Community Rail Partnership (CRP) working alongside Great Western Railway to design rail services that are benefical to local people. The aim is to increase passenger numbers, improve connectivity to key destinations and ultimately boost the local economy.
Passenger services will still be operated by Great Western Railway; however, it will be with the support of the CRP, Wiltshire Council, rail users and other interest groups.
Paul Johnson, Chairman of Trans-Wilts said, “We are delighted to achieve our service designation which recognises the efforts and support of our local members and volunteers in establishing improved local services. Since our service was established in December 2013, passenger numbers have grown rapidly and we have reached our five year target in just two years. The designation is important because it formalises the status of Trans-Wilts and gives us access to some additional support, including funding. An early priority for us will be to see how our designation can help us improve the coordination between local bus and rail services along our route.”
Rail Minister Paul Maynard said, “The TransWilts line is vital to local communities in Wiltshire and it is right that passengers will now have a greater say in the shape of its future.
“Designating the line as a community rail service will breathe new life into this route and ensure its long term future. Improved connections between Swindon and Westbury mean better journeys for customers and a boost for the local economy.”
For more information, visit www.transwilts.org
