CAMPAIGNERS hoping to reopen the former London &South Western Railway route between Exeter and Plymouth have published detailed plans for the scheme.
Tavistock Okehampton Reopening Scheme (TORS) believes that a 59-minute non-stop journey time could be possible between the two cities,providing a viable alternative to the current route via Dawlish.
The plan requires rebuilding 21 miles of closed railway between Meldon Quarry and Bere Alston, plus the upgrading of the Exeter-Okehampton-Meldon and Bere Alston to Plymouth sections to modern standards, with double track throughout.
However, TORS also believes the line should be electrified throughout, with European Train Control System (ETCS) in-cab signalling and provision for freight, allowing heavier trains to bypass the moresteeply graded GWR route.