Would reinstating the rail link be a good or a bad thing for Tavistock?

WOULD REINSTATING the rail link be a good or a bad thing for Tavistock? We continue our debate on Tavistock People, with the second of three questions put to Tavistock residents…

For years there has been discussion about re-opening the railway line between Tavistock and Bere Alston, giving a direct service between Tavistock and Plymouth.

Axed by Dr Beeching on 5 May 1968, the route remains in sound condition, although some strengthening of original cuttings and embankments may be required to update them for modern rail use.

If the railway was reinstated, it could improve travelling options for residents, commuters and businesses as well as reducing traffic on the busy A386 Tavistock to Plymouth road.

But the line could come at a cost. The project would largely be funded by national house builder Bovis Homes, who plan to develop 750 new homes to the south and south west of Tavistock.

Consultation – between Devon County Council, Kilbride Community Rail, West Devon Borough Council, Network Rail and Bovis Homes – is ongoing. There could be a public enquiry in 2014, and, if the necessary powers are obtained, construction could begin in 2016.

But does Tavistock want the railway to return? Tavistock People put three questions to some local residents of different ages. Here's how they replied to our second question…

Would reinstating the rail link be a good or a bad thing for Tavistock?

Brian Bradley, Tavistock resident: "Tavistock has obviously grown over the years, just like any healthy small town. It has a distinct, attractive character. A new rail link could be good for the town, bring in more visitors and more wealth to local traders. However, if the cost is a large housing development, this would impose a big change for residents."

Shaun Smith, Tavistock musician: "I think it would be a good thing. The buses are overcharging fares and are slow. The trains would make the trip more enjoyable, being different, cheaper, faster and more efficient."

Malcolm Christie, Chairman, Tavistock branch of the Royal British Legion: "It would be a good thing for the town. The A386 Tavistock to Plymouth road is becoming more and more congested, and as most of the route is over the Dartmoor National Park, there will never be improvement on that aspect, such as road widening, etc. Furthermore, as a keen supporter of any improvement in the railway infrastructure, I am always happy to see some of the savage and short-sighted closures of railway routes in the the 1960s reversed.

"It would be nice to think that this a first step in the re-establishment of the line to Okehampton and Exeter, before the line at Dawlish falls into the sea, and West Devon and Cornwall are completely isolated from the rest of the country!"

Comments coming in via Twitter and Facebook:

Matt Sweet: "Without question a well overdue link for the town. As long as the timetable is attractive to ensure it's no white elephant."

Janet Hopkinson: " Bad thing. Put a commuter cycle path along the A386 instead!"

Louise Loulou Jackman: "Not sure either way????"

Next week: Would a rail link to Plymouth make any difference to you, your family and your friends?

The questions so far: What do you think about trains coming to Tavistock?

What are your views? You can post your comments directly on this page, or via our Facebook page or Twitter