Efforts to reconnect West Somerset Railway with mainline met with optimism
Somerset MP sees hopeful signs despite funding challenges
Last updated 19th Aug 2026
Efforts to reconnect the heritage West Somerset Railway (WSR) with mainline services have been met with optimism, according to local MP Rachel Gilmour.
The WSR, which runs from Bishop’s Lydeard to Minehead and passes through picturesque villages such as Watchet, Blue Anchor, Dunster, and Williton, could potentially link to Great Western Railway (GWR) services at Taunton.
Somerset Council and West Somerset Railway PLC have jointly submitted a strategic outline business case to the Department for Transport (DfT) in November 2024, estimating that the necessary improvements would cost approximately £6m.
While the DfT approved the council's development of a full business case for restoring services in June, it did not provide the £137,000 requested to initiate this process.
MP Rachel Gilmour remains hopeful, inspired by recent developments including the opening of Okehampton Interchange railway station in late July.
Speaking in Minehead, Gilmour expressed confidence that the government will support reconnecting the line, citing discussions with transport stakeholders.
“I don’t think senior civil servants would have come down to have a look if it was a ‘no,’” Gilmour said in her speech.
She reported discussions with senior figures including Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander MP and Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy, where they advised focusing on a business case highlighting social mobility and economic development.
The continuity in the cabinet, following Andy Burnham's instalment as prime minister, is seen as a positive sign by Gilmour, especially with known figures holding onto key positions.
“This is a hopeful case because they’ve confirmed that there’s no objection to taking the business case forward,” Gilmour said, emphasising the government's commitment to coastal and rural communities.
She asserted her stance on maintaining a pragmatic approach: “I’ve always said I’d rather under-promise and over-deliver, and I’m not changing that mantra."
Gilmour pledged continued efforts to advocate for West Somerset’s cause once parliament reconvenes on 1st September, amid party conference season.
Despite financial obstacles, she remains hopeful that the initiative will advance, supported by the prime minister's focus on investing across the UK.