MAJOR work to restore Newquay Train Station’s second platform is on track to open in the New Year.

PACE Infrastructure Solutions is carrying out the work as part of the £56-million Mid Cornwall Metro Project on behalf of Network Rail, which is set to be completed “in the winter.”

Trains into Newquay will increase from every two and a half hours to hourly from next May once the scheme is completed, which will create a coast to coast through-service connecting Newquay with Par, St Austell, Truro, Penryn and Falmouth.

Other improvements will see enhancements to the train station, a new passing loop at Tregoss Moor; upgraded level crossings; new signalling at Goonbarrow and digitalisation of rail ticketing.

A spokesperson for Newquay Rail said: “Work is underway to restore a second platform at Newquay station. This will be completed in winter 2024.

“Work to build the new passing loop begins in November 2024 before track work takes place in February 2025.

“The work follows a multi-million pound project to upgrade signals between Truro and Lostwithiel to improve reliability of trains in Cornwall and pave the way for future development of the railway.

“The train service between Newquay and Par will double from every two hours to hourly from May 2025. Direct trains serving the full Mid Cornwall Metro route between Newquay and Falmouth will start in 2026.

“From May 2025, Par will have hourly trains to/from Newquay.

“From 2026 there will be three trains an hour between St Austell and Truro, and an increased frequency between Par, St Austell and Truro.

“The Maritime Line (Truro-Falmouth) will retain two trains an hour throughout. From 2026 one of these each hour will be to/from Newquay and St Austell.

“An additional platform at Newquay will be restored to enable the improved service.”