Mid Cornwall Metro: Major Upgrade Boosts Rail Travel
06.11.2025
There is a requirement for more time for completion of test signaling on the Mid Cornwall Metro project, and as such, Network Rail has extended its temporary closure between Newquay and Par until November 18 to be able to fully test its system’s safety.
This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Mid Cornwall Metro Supports Cornwall’s Transport Transformation
Network Rail is carrying out advanced work on its Newquay-to-Par railway project, replacing signals and adding a second platform at Newquay. Engineers are currently testing digital systems that will help reliability and capacity.
As the project’s signaling system has required complex testing, completion has moved towards mid-November. Train services between Newquay and St Austell continue to be replaced by bus services, and other services run from Par towards Plymouth and Penzance.
Network Rail’s Industry Programme Director, Bogdan Lupu, added that this upgrade is essential as it ensures that all signals on this route adhere to the highest standards of safety. Commuters have been asked by Lupu to check new timetables on GWR.com before traveling, as travel times could be longer than usual on these routes due to this upgrade.
Mid Cornwall Metro Expands Connectivity Across the Region
GWR Station Manager Lee Goodson added that these developments would revolutionize Cornwall’s transport system. The completed mid-Cornwall metro system would facilitate hourly transportation and a new direct route between Falmouth and Newquay via Truro, St Austell, and St Austell and Par, respectively.
It brings together funding from the UK Government and Cornwall Council and shows how investment can help more people travel by train that is greener, more frequent, and more accessible. Newquay is set to have two open platforms for the first time since 1987, ensuring improved passenger flows and timetables.
Although there is a temporary inconvenience for passengers due to replacement buses, GWR and Network Rail have stressed that ultimately, this will have a good end result as they will have a fast, clean, and reliable journey as Cornwall’s citizens and visitors.
Source: Network Rail
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What is the Mid Cornwall Metro project?
The Mid Cornwall Metro is a government-backed transport program designed to connect Newquay, Truro, St Austell, Par, and Falmouth with more frequent and sustainable train services.
Why has the Mid Cornwall Metro work been delayed?
Testing of the new digital signaling system requires more time to guarantee full safety and reliability before reopening the Newquay–Par line.
How will passengers be affected during the signal upgrade?
Until November 18, buses replace trains between Newquay and St Austell. Passengers can find updates and revised schedules at GWR.com.
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