Barnstaple to Exeter train line remains closed as more heavy rain set to hit Devon

It is currently unknown when the Barnstaple to Exeter train line will reopen, with services remaining suspended as engineers continue repairing damage caused by Storm Chandra.

Passengers are being warned that more heavy rain is expected, which could slow repair work and extend travel disruption across Devon and Cornwall.

Great Western Railway (GWR) has said the line is expected to remain closed until at least Wednesday 4 February, with reopening dependent on river levels falling and Network Rail staff completing safety inspections.

Following last week’s heavy flooding, engineers found multiple sections of the Barnstaple and Okehampton lines where the ballast, the stones that support the track, had been washed away. Teams have been working around the clock to rebuild these areas, bringing in new ballast and compacting it to create a stable surface.

Before services can resume, specialist divers will also need to carry out underwater inspections of structures such as bridges and viaducts to check for damage caused by fast-flowing water. With more heavy rain forecast, Network Rail is continuing to monitor river levels to ensure it is safe for divers to carry out these checks.

Daryn McCombe, GWR’s director of performance and Network Rail’s director of operations for the Western route, said: “Travel in Devon and Cornwall will continue to be disrupted into the first week of February as we work to repair storm damage. We’re really sorry for the disruption this is causing for passengers.

“We’ve been able to inspect and reopen the Newquay branch line, but it’s essential to continue checking before you travel as further heavy rain is expected. Our work to repair the damage on the Barnstaple and Okehampton lines is progressing well. Before we can reopen these lines, we will need to carry out safety inspections, including with the use of divers who assess whether the force of the water has caused any scour damage to bridges. While these lines have been shut, we’ve also carried out other essential work, including removing dangerous trees and completing other safety-critical tasks. Please continue to check before travelling for the latest updates.”

The following lines currently remain closed:

• Exeter St Davids – Barnstaple

• Exeter St Davids – Okehampton

• Liskeard – Looe

The line between Par and Newquay has reopened, but passengers are advised to continue checking for updates as more rain is forecast.

Replacement services are in place while lines remain closed. A limited rail replacement bus service operates between Exeter St Davids and Okehampton, stopping only at Exeter St Davids and Okehampton. There is also an hourly coach service between Exeter St Davids and Barnstaple, calling at Crediton and Eggesford only. Bus replacement services are operating between Liskeard and Looe.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain from 6pm tonight, Monday 2 February until 9pm on Tuesday 3 February, warning of possible flooding that could affect homes, businesses, and travel.