West Dorset MP welcomes additional train services to Weymouth this summer
Chris Loder thinks the Heart of Wessex line will bring a boost to tourism this summer
West Dorset MP Chris Loder has welcomed the new additional services on the Heart of Wessex line following a long campaign to improve the Great Western Railway operated service.
The Heart of Wessex line runs between Bristol, Bath, Castle Cary, Yeovil, Maiden Newton and Dorchester and Weymouth.
The changes that took effect from the 15th May have resulted in an additional seven train services running through the Heart of Wessex line to Weymouth on Saturdays in the summer.
Mr Loder said:
“The Heart of Wessex Line is a gem which, I think, has some of the most beautiful scenery along any railway line in the UK. The challenge to get improvements on this line has been immense, with what is a very poor frequency line.
"But there has been a considerable step forward with a dramatic increase in the number of trains on Saturdays during the summer with an additional seven trains in total running to and from Weymouth. These provide a much-needed boost not just for tourism but also makes it much easier for local families wanting a trip to the seaside at Weymouth”
The new services include:
• 0808 from Swindon, arrives Weymouth 1024
• 0908 from Bristol Temple Meads, arrives Weymouth 1126
• 1423 from Westbury, arrives Weymouth 1553
• 1541 from Gloucester to Westbury is extended to Weymouth, arriving 1927
• 1210 from Weymouth to Westbury
• 1828 from Weymouth to Bristol Temple Meads
• 1940 from Weymouth to Swindon