Tarka Line latest: National Rail issues urgent update for travellers

Passengers travelling between Barnstaple and Exeter are facing continued disruption after heavy rainfall from Storm Chandra left parts of the line underwater.

Network Rail and Great Western Railway (GWR) have confirmed the Exeter St Davids to Barnstaple line will remain closed until further notice while engineers carry out essential safety inspections. Visible damage to tracks has already been repaired, but specialist checks are needed on bridges and viaducts now submerged by fast-flowing water. Current conditions are too dangerous for divers to enter, delaying the reopening.

A limited replacement service is in operation, with an hourly coach running between Barnstaple and Exeter St Davids, while local buses are accepting some rail tickets. Passengers are urged to check timetables before travelling.

Daryn McCombe, GWR director of performance and Network Rail’s Western route operations director, said: “We’re really sorry for the continued disruption following Storm Chandra. Our teams have repaired the visible damage, but it’s vital to ensure underwater structures are safe before reopening the line. We’re monitoring river levels closely and will send divers in as soon as conditions allow.”

It is understood the line is not expected to reopen until at least Friday or Saturday, depending on when water levels fall.