HOPES are growing that regular scheduled train services will once again link the West Somerset Railway with the national rail network.

The WSR company says the move would safeguard the heritage line’s long-term future.

With increasing interest in re-opening long-closed stations and lines on the network, a partnership working group has been set up to look at the prospects of running scheduled trains between WSR’s Bishops Lydeard Station and Taunton.

It has long been an aim since the Taunton to Minehead branch was rescued by enthusiasts after BR axed services in the 1960s. At one time there were even through expresses from London and other parts of the country.

The team tasked with in-depth discussions includes representatives of the Heart of South West Local Enterprise Partnership, Great Western Railway, Network Rail, Somerset County Council and WSR Plc.

The first phase will look at the simplest and most effective way the link between the heritage line and the mainline can be improved, signalled and operated, then an outline business plan will be developed with an estimate of costs.

Christian Irwin, Network Rail's director of rail investment centre, said: “Working closely with our local partners is essential to understanding the transport needs of local communities. We are pleased to be supporting this study.”

GWR’s head of service strategy Matt Barnes said: “We are delighted to work with the WSR and other partners to explore the feasibility and business case for restoring daily passenger services between Taunton and Bishops Lydeard.”

The development would build on the successful trial of a summer Saturday shuttle service during 2019, before the pandemic.

Ian Harrison, transport adviser to the Heart of South West Local Enterprise Partnership, said re-connecting the local communities to the national rail network would give residents better access to employment, services, education and training, and improve connections to local businesses.

He added: “Direct train services from Taunton will support inbound tourism to West Somerset, not least to the West Somerset Railway itself."

WSR company director Steve Williams said: “This work is seen by the plc as playing a vital part in securing the long-term sustainability of the West Somerset Railway.

“We have excellent relationships with our partners in this venture and we hope we can develop a strong case for reconnection to Taunton that will attract the necessary support and funding to make it a reality.”