Station to undergo major changes to improve bus and train transfers

Barnstaple Railway Station is set to undergo a major overhaul following the approval of a new transport interchange scheme by Devon County Council’s Cabinet. 

The initiative, which received unanimous cross-party backing on Wednesday’s (September 11) meeting, aims to enhance connectivity between bus services and trains while improving access to the town centre.

The scheme, known as Bus-Rail Integration Enhancements, comes with a budget of £785,670.

It follows Devon County Council being awarded £14.1 million in Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) funding by the Department for Transport in 2022.

Key improvements will include a redesigned road layout and new bus stops positioned directly outside the station’s main entrance. 

These stops will feature shelters, real-time information screens, and cycle parking facilities. A new zebra crossing adjacent to the station entrance will enhance pedestrian safety and ease of access.

Additional upgrades will involve new bus access on Sticklepath Terrace to facilitate smoother travel toward Barnstaple town centre, bypassing congestion on Station Road. 

A new path at the end of Sticklepath Terrace will offer a more direct route for pedestrians traveling to and from the railway station.

The plans have been developed in collaboration with Network Rail and Great Western Railway, which jointly own and operate the station.

Councillor Andrea Davis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment, and Transport at Devon County Council, said: “Building on the timetable enhancements Devon County Council has made to several of the buses serving the railway station this scheme aims to make travelling by bus from Barnstaple Station easier and a more attractive option and encourage more people to use public transport.”

Councillor Caroline Leaver, Liberal Democrat Group Leader and local member for Barnstaple South, said: “I want to thank everyone involved for all the work that’s gone into developing plans to turn Barnstaple Train Station an integrated transport hub, and all those who took the trouble to comment on the plans.

“I believe the scheme will include routes for cyclists that are easy to navigate and avoid sharp turns, keeping cyclists safe.”

Councillor Frank Biederman,  Leader of the Independent Group and  local member for Fremington Rural, said: "I’m very supportive; it’s a good scheme and everyone involved should be congratulated.

“It can be chaos at times at the rail station, with people dropping off and picking up and this should make things better and improve the safety and efficiency of services.”

Councillor Carol Whitton, Labour Group Leader, added: “Any works that improve on the network’s ability to deliver passengers speedily and safely are welcome. I’m glad to see that this is happening.”

The enhancements at Barnstaple Railway Station are expected to improve the overall travel experience for over 500,000 passengers who use the station annually, marking a significant step forward in regional transport infrastructure.