New train services could be introduced to parts of Somerset, including Taunton, to compete with operator GWR, the BBC reported November 18.
Go-Op, a co-operatively owned train company, is looking to run such services between Taunton and Weston-super-Mare, Taunton and Westbury, Taunton and Swindon, and Frome and Westbury.
The new services are set to run by December 2026.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) said its decision gives Go-op the “opportunity to bring the first co-operatively owned train service and the first regional open access service in the UK."
Go-Op has to show it has sufficient funds to operate and pay for improvements as well as prove it has enough rolling stock or trains to start the service.
“We will closely monitor Go-op’s progress towards meeting the financial and rolling stock requirements that are needed before it can bring the services into operation," ORR said.
GWR was last week awarded best domestic rail service by Business Traveller magazine.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel