A LAUNCESTON councillor has said that the progress made to bring a rail link back to the town ‘has been positive and amazing.’

Working alongside Connect Bude and Okerail, ‘Connect Launceston’ has been exploring the town’s potential when it comes to the return of rail-travel.  

Speaking to the Post, Cllr Gordon explained: “The progress made to date for ‘Connect Launceston’ has been positive and amazing. 

“We have managed to identify three possible routes, undertaken an ‘Engineering Strategy’ as well as a passenger demand study. 

“Last Saturday morning saw all three routes on display at Launceston Library as part of the town council surgery, and many of the visitors to the library took time to see the possible routes and ask questions. 

“All the feedback we received was very positive and people were genuinely interested in what we are trying to do.” 

The three routes which have been identified by the group are: the old LSWR route to Halwill Junction and then on to Okehampton; the old GWR line to Lydford Gorge to Tavistock / Okehampton; and a newly identified route which follows the A30 direct from Launceston to Okehampton.

The group now hope to look into more detail surrounding the possibility, positives and drawbacks of each option. They are also hoping to undertake a full public consultation to gauge local opinion.  

Cllr Gordon continued: “Along with this we will very soon need to identify where a proposed station is to be built, and we will need to identify land ownership along all three routes, also taking into account the environmental impact along these routes. 

“We now intend to undertake a full public consultation within the coming weeks in the town square, town hall and at the Launceston show. 

“It is important that people come and speak to us at these events so we can get the public's opinion, and we look forward to speaking to people about this exciting project.” 

The project has also received messages of support from some key groups.  

Cllr Gordon explained: “In the last week or so we have received very positive messages of support from key national people and groups, such as: the senior officer for connectivity and major transport projects from Cornwall Council; Network Rail, who are very keen to support us with help with our business case; and GWR who are also happy to support our bid for not just Launceston but “North Cornwall” as a whole to be reconnected to the railway network. 

 “2024 will be a busy year for ‘Connect Launceston’ and we are looking forward to making more positive steps in progress for the project. 

“We intend to keep Launceston and its surrounding area updated with our progress throughout.”