Devon MP warns rail 'Cinderella' line cannot support new housing surge

The Liberal Democrat MP for Honiton & Sidmouth has warned that government plans to fast-track housing near "well-connected" railway stations could overwhelm East Devon’s "sub-standard" infrastructure.

Richard Foord told a Westminster Hall debate that the West of England line, which links Exeter to London Waterloo, is currently a "Cinderella service" that lacks the capacity for significant population growth.

Under new government proposals, housing developments within 15 minutes of well-connected stations would receive a blanket "yes" to planning permission. However, Mr Foord argued that towns like Feniton, Honiton, Axminster, and Cullompton risk "unfettered" growth without the necessary investment to back it up.

'Waiting for a pumpkin'

The MP criticised the reliability of the line, noting that much of the dual track was removed years ago, limiting services to one train per hour.

"People stood waiting for a South Western Railway carriage... may wonder if they are waiting for a pumpkin," Mr Foord said, referencing the line's "Cinderella" status.

He pointed out that during last autumn’s dry weather, track-bed issues forced the frequency of services to be halved.

"Stations on this railway line are plainly not 'well connected'," he added.

Mr Foord is calling for an "infrastructure-first" approach, backing a six-point plan developed by the Salisbury to Exeter Rail Users Group. The proposed upgrades include:

• New rolling stock and modern power sources.

• Signalling upgrades.

• Double tracking or a new passing loop at Whimple to increase frequency.

The MP concluded that until these upgrades are funded by the government, the railway should not be used as a justification for new housing in "unsuitable locations."