Major rail disruption as bridge damage forces closure between Barnstaple and Exeter

A damaged bridge between Crediton and Barnstaple has prompted the closure of the rail line, resulting in the cancellation of train services between Exeter St Davids and Barnstaple by Great Western Rail.

The disruption is expected to endure until the end of today, with Network Rail projecting a reopening of the line on Tuesday, January 23.

Customers holding tickets dated January 21 or 22 for travel between the affected stations are reassured that their tickets will remain valid for use on the day the line reopens.

National Rail have reported that a rail replacement service will be in operation between Exeter St David's and Barnstaple, operating on the same timetable as rail services. 

A Network Rail spokesperson said, “Following reports of damaged masonry on a bridge at Copplestone yesterday, we closed the railway between Barnstaple and Crediton for safety reasons. We’re sorry for the inconvenience this will cause to passengers.

“Owing to weather conditions on Sunday, our teams were unable to complete a full assessment of the structure. However, they have been on site this morning to carry out a safety inspection. We will reopen the line as soon as it’s safe to do so, currently it’s expected that it will remain closed for the rest of the day.”

Great Western Rail has extended its sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused and promises to furnish additional information regarding the anticipated reopening of the line as soon as updates are received from Network Rail.