Newquay branch reopens after four week closure to increase capacity is completed

Work to install a new passing loop on the Newquay branch has been completed.

The 400-metre-long loop at Goss Moor has been laid during a four-week closure of the line that runs north from Par as part of stage three of the Mid Cornwall Metro project.

Network Rail has also replaced 400 metres of track at St Blazey and installed digital signals between Newquay and Goonbarrow signal box.

The signals will be in use from September, which, along with the new loop, will increase the line’s capacity. Presently only one train can occupy the line past Goonbarrow, severely limiting the service to one every two hours.

From next year, direct trains will run between Newquay and Falmouth via Par, St Austell and Truro.

Network Rail lead portfolio manager George Collinson said: “We’ve had several teams working non-stop for the past month to make the biggest improvements to the Newquay branch line in a generation.

“Trains can now pass each other at Goss Moor for the first time since the 1960s and our work will soon bring a huge increase in trains along the line.”

The original plan was for signals to be operational in time for the summer, but Network Rail explained to RAIL that more time was needed for their installation.

Repairs of Ponts Mill viaduct have also been carried out. Four spans have been replaced, with new track laid, while work will now focus on strengthening out-facing steel girders.