The first phase of the Mid Cornwall Metro project has officially begun, with passengers now benefiting from hourly train services between Newquay and Par for the first time in more than six decades.
The enhanced timetable, which started this morning, more than doubles previous service levels on the route and marks a major milestone in Cornwall’s £57 million rail upgrade programme.
Business leaders and local stakeholders have welcomed the improvements, saying the more frequent service will strengthen tourism, support local businesses and provide residents with a more practical alternative to car travel.
Mark Warren, manager of Newquay Business Improvement District, described the new timetable as “a win-win for businesses, for locals, for tourists”.
The full Mid Cornwall Metro network is scheduled to launch next year and will introduce direct trains linking Newquay and Falmouth via Par, St Austell and Truro, connecting several of Cornwall’s largest towns through a single service.
To enable the upgrade, Network Rail has completed a series of infrastructure improvements along the line. These included restoring a second platform at Newquay station, installing a new passing loop at Goss Moor, introducing digital signalling, replacing track near St Blazey and refurbishing the 153-year-old Ponts Mill viaduct.
Chris Fuoco, Network Rail’s Western route programme director for Devon and Cornwall, said the works would improve both service frequency and reliability while helping connect communities more effectively.
Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for transport, Councillor Dan Rogerson, described the launch as “a real milestone” for the wider project and said the improved rail offer would support economic growth while encouraging more sustainable travel.
Newquay Mayor Drew Creek said the increased connectivity would help support the town’s growing hospitality and tourism economy, while local café owner Topher Chard said the hourly service would make travel around Cornwall easier and more attractive without relying on cars.
The Mid Cornwall Metro scheme is jointly funded by the UK Government and Cornwall Council.
