MAJOR work to restore Newquay Train Station’s second platform is taking shape.
PACE Infrastructure Solutions is carrying out the work as part of the £56million Mid Cornwall Metro Project on behalf of Colas Rail.
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.
The second platform restoration scheme is due to be completed on Monday, October 28.
Rick Osmani, the labour manager at PACE, said: “The PACE team has made remarkable progress since the project's recent launch, working efficiently and keeping the community at the forefront of every decision.
“From the start, our planning has been focused on minimising impact, even in our choice of machinery.
“For example, when constructing the retaining wall near the police station, we prioritised the quietest method for pile installation.
“In addition to the project work, we are proud to have created job opportunities for local residents, who have been a great addition to the team.
“Looking ahead, we are in the process of organising a beach clean-up, and also utilising our skilled team to benefit the community in any way possible.
“In terms of the works, we are currently in the process of removing the old platform and constructing a new, longer one that will be both functional and visually appealing once completed. The retaining wall we built provides crucial additional support, ensuring the platform's stability and enhancing the overall design.”
Cornwall councillor Olly Monk said: “Following years of hard work by Cornwall Council, Network Rail, GWR and the Government I am hugely proud and satisfied that work on the Mid Cornwall Metro has begun in earnest.
“This £50 million goverment funded project will double the number of trains and shorten journey times into Newquay which allows extra people to visit and work in the town.
“At a time when we are acutely aware of how much traffic is generated in and around Newquay having extra rail capacity is vital to manage the way people arrive into our town.
“The new second platform is only the start of the project and extra passing places, and signalling will be provided in the near future.
“I personally think this work will provide the people who live in Quintrell Downs and Fraddon a viable route into to town to work and socialise.
“This will give all our businesses a boost in trade year-round.
“Once finished the line will be able to provide direct trains into London and Bristol which further opens up the connectivity of Newquay.”
PACE is due to carry out community projects in Newquay whilst the platform works are being carried out.
A beach clean is due to be staged at Great Western Beach and the company is also working with Newquay BID to refurbish railings at a local beach.
Rick said: “We have come to Newquay to help the community with the refurbishment of the rail platform but we also want to help the community by doing our bit wherever we can.”
A Cornwall Council scrutiny committee heard that the cost of building a new accessible lift bridge at Par station has increased by over £1m and is unlikely to be delivered within the project’s time-frame.