New Avocet Line station backed by council

A new railway station on the edge of Topsham could help ease traffic congestion through the town, according to Devon County Council.

The council’s cabinet has given its backing to the £2million scheme for a new station on the Avocet Line at Newcourt.

The new station will be adjacent to the former Royal Naval Stores Depot development area, between Topsham and Digby and Sowton stations.

It will consist of a single 124-metre platform, suitable for longer trains, and will include a shelter, ticket machine and customer information system.

Pedestrian and cyclists’ access will mainly be from Liberty Way, and a small drop-off area and parking for disabled people will also be provided.

Now that the plans, brought forward alongside a scheme for a new station at Marsh Barton, have been backed by councillors, a formal planning application is expected shortly.

Topsham county councillor Andrew Leadbetter said: “I’ve been listening to people about the proposals and have taken their views on board.

“I’m looking forward to when the station is open, offering an alternative mode of transport to local residents, whilst also helping to reduce congestion on local roads, including Topsham Road.”