Devon and Somerset towns set to rejoin the rail network after decades of disconnection
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
After decades without a direct rail connection, two towns in the South West are preparing to return to the national rail map. Cullompton in Devon and Wellington in Somerset will soon welcome new railway stations, restoring links lost during the Beeching cuts of the 1960s.
For local residents, this long-awaited development promises not only greater freedom of movement, but also a practical and sustainable alternative to car travel - whether heading into the region or out towards major cities like London.
With services expected to begin by 2026, the new stations will sit on the main line between Exeter and Taunton. Each will be connected through Exeter St David’s, a key transport hub offering direct routes to London Paddington, Bristol, Plymouth, and the Cornish mainline.
This means that those living in Cullompton, Wellington and surrounding areas will soon be able to make easier, more direct journeys to the capital and beyond - without the need for long drives or patchy bus connections.
The return of the railway is the result of years of determined local campaigning and a confirmed investment of £45 million from central government. This funding will cover the construction and delivery of both stations and marks a wider recognition of the importance of connecting rural communities with national infrastructure.
For people living in these towns, the benefits will be felt in everyday life. Whether commuting, visiting family, attending university, or enjoying a day out in the city, the ease of stepping onto a train locally - rather than having to travel to Tiverton Parkway or Taunton - will make a real difference.
The rail regeneration also opens up new economic and educational opportunities, particularly for younger residents or those without access to a car.
There is, of course, a benefit for visitors too. Cullompton offers a gateway to the Blackdown Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, as well as nearby attractions such as Killerton House and Dartmoor National Park.
Wellington, just over the county line in Somerset, offers direct access to the Quantock Hills and Exmoor’s moorland landscapes. But this time, the convenience is mutual: just as city dwellers will find it easier to explore the West Country, locals will find it easier to leave it when they wish.
The new stations form part of a broader improvement in the region’s transport links. Work is already under way on the Okehampton Interchange, scheduled for completion in 2026, which will help extend rail services deeper into West Devon and North Cornwall.
( Photos: DW Regional Press Photos 📸 )