FIRST passenger services at Marsh Barton station start tomorrow, Tuesday, July 4, becoming Exeter’s ninth railway station.

A special opening ceremony was held at the station today, Monday, July 3, attended by Transport Secretary, Mark Harper.

Visiting the station alongside an event at the newly-opened Dawlish sea wall, Transport Secretary, Mark Harper, said: 'I am delighted to see the completion of these major projects, delivering a Government commitment to improve a vital rail route for passengers in the South West.

'These projects demonstrate a Government that is delivering our promises, investing in vital infrastructure and improving transport connections to help grow the economy.'

Marsh Barton is the second of three new Great Western Railway stations opening this year along with Reading Green Park, which was opened in May, and Portway Park & Ride, which is due to open later this summer.

GWR Managing Director, Mark Hopwood, said: 'New stations such as this are vital in bringing the railway closer to people as we become mindful of the need to live and travel more sustainably.

'Marsh Barton will help to ease congestion on some of Exeter’s busiest roads and offer a more environmentally friendly option for those who normally drive into the area. 

'Marsh Barton is one of three GWR stations to open this year along with Portway Park & Ride in Bristol and Reading Green Park, and we are excited for the benefits these stations will bring to the local economy, to residents, businesses and leisure travellers in the areas they serve.'

The £16 million project has been delivered by Devon County Council in collaboration with Network Rail and Great Western Railway (GWR) and built by construction and civil engineering specialist firm GRAHAM.

The station will be served by hourly Great Western Railway services between Paignton and Exmouth, with more at peak times and will improve active travel links between Alphington, Marsh Barton, and the Riverside Valley Park.

The station features two fully accessible platforms equipped with:

The two platforms are linked by a pedestrian overbridge which has ramps to facilitate cyclists and provide disabled access to the whole station.