Network Rail has commenced the third major phase of construction for the Mid Cornwall Metro (MCM) project, a transformative initiative poised to revolutionise coast-to-coast rail travel in Cornwall. Funded by the UK Government and Cornwall Council, and delivered by Network Rail in partnership with the council and Great Western Railway (GWR), MCM is on track to significantly enhance rail services and connectivity within the region.
The current phase focuses on the construction of a 400-meter passing loop at Goss Moor. This crucial infrastructure enhancement will enable simultaneous operation of long-distance and local trains between Newquay and Par, effectively doubling the current service frequency. Construction is being carefully managed within the Goss Moor National Nature Reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, with necessary permissions secured from Natural England.
Initial work is being conducted overnight to minimise disruption, followed by a 24/7 intensive construction period during a temporary line closure from February 24th to March 23rd, inclusive.
During the closure, Network Rail will also replace 400 meters of track near St Blazey and conduct essential maintenance on the Ponts Mill (Prideaux) viaduct.
This phase follows the successful completion of two previous project milestones: the restoration of a second platform at Newquay station and the installation of 500 meters of new track and a new crossing. While the launch of the increased Newquay-Par service, initially planned for this summer, is now anticipated later in 2025 due to ongoing digital signaling installation, the project remains on schedule for through train services from Newquay to Falmouth, via Par, St Austell, and Truro, in 2026.
Beyond rail infrastructure, MCM encompasses improvements to walking and cycling paths, as well as public spaces surrounding stations. Cornwall Council recently initiated construction on the first phase of enhancements at Newquay, widening the shared-use path along Narrowcliff, with further design refinements planned following public consultation.
Network Rail industry programme director Bogdan Lupu said: “We’ve made great progress so far to bring Mid Cornwall Metro to life and this next phase will take us even closer.
“Our work will bring more trains to Newquay, improve the environment and boost the local economy.”
GWR Head of Strategic Service Development Matthew Barnes said: “We welcome the steady progress being made to deliver this scheme. These upgrades will make the track 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.
“Once the infrastructure works and operational preparations are complete, 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.”
Councillor Connor Donnithorne, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for transport, said: “Mid Cornwall Metro is the biggest investment into public transport in Cornwall for 30 years. It underlines our commitment to provide a thriving and sustainable Cornwall, fit for the modern world, for the benefit our residents.
“Improving public spaces and accessibility on the roads and public spaces around the stations brings many benefits. Improving the ‘first and last mile’ makes it easier for people to make the choice to walk, cycle or catch the bus to their local station, rather than driving and adding to congestion on our roads.
“It also benefits those in the community who may not need to travel by train, and instead are travelling within their town or village. People are more likely to walk or cycle if they feel safe to do so.
“And there’s lots of research showing the value of the ‘pedestrian pound’ and how attractive, connected public spaces increase dwell time in local shops and businesses.”
For more information about the Mid Cornwall Metro project, please visit midcornwallmetro.com.
