Shock opposition to steam railway mainline connection plans - from railway directors

COLD water has been poured by West Somerset Railway (WSR) itself on plans for a permanent mainline connection for regular through trains from Taunton.

In a shock move, the steam railway’s board expressed opposition to the project in its annual accounts, the last to be written by late chairman Jonathan Jones-Pratt, who died earlier this month.

Directors were worried such a connection would harm the unique status of the WSR as a heritage visitor attraction.

The WSR is England’s longest steam railway and the UK’s longest standard-gauge heritage railway, with a lease until 2088 on its 20-mile line from Minehead to Bishops Lydeard, plus the track through to Norton Fitzwarren.

Local MP Rachel Gilmour with support from Somerset Council has been campaigning for the heritage railway to be reconnected for services to run to and from Taunton.

Mrs Gilmour met Rail Minister Lord Hendy last year to discuss the project and early in 2026 she brought Department for Transport Civil Servants to West Somerset to look at the idea.

But, Mr Jones-Pratt said in the annual report: “No decisions have been taken, and any future developments will be subject to detailed feasibility work, stakeholder engagement, and appropriate funding.

“The PLC board remains supportive of initiatives that enhance access to the railway while preserving its unique heritage character.

“However, the board does not support any proposal to extend regular mainline passenger services beyond Bishops Lydeard to Minehead.

“It believes this would fundamentally alter the heritage nature of the West Somerset Railway, compromise the visitor experience, and create significant operational challenges.

“The board’s strategic objective is to protect the railway's identity as one of the country’s leading heritage railways while improving connectivity where this is compatible with its long-term charitable and commercial objectives.

“The board’s immediate priority remains the successful operation of the railway and the protection of its heritage assets, while continuing to develop long-term strategic opportunities that will strengthen the organisation for future generations.”

Mr Jones-Pratt said discussions were continuing with key stakeholders regarding the potential for improved mainline connectivity between Taunton and Bishops Lydeard.

He said the talks involved consideration of opportunities to improve public transport integration, accessibility, and visitor access to the WSR, while recognising the operational, financial, and infrastructure implications of any future proposals.

Mr Jones-Pratt said: “Maintaining the resilience of the business, investing in essential infrastructure and supporting the delivery of the railway's core services remain the immediate priorities.

“At the same time, the board recognises the importance of planning for the railway’s long-term future and continues to progress strategic development projects where resources allow.

“The primary strategic development priority is the long-term enhancement of the Bishops Lydeard site, recognising its role as the railway’s principal gateway, operational hub, and administrative centre.

“Development proposals continue to focus on improving locomotive servicing and maintenance facilities, increasing covered carriage accommodation, enhancing visitor and museum facilities, and consolidating administrative functions to improve operational efficiency.”

Mr Jones-Pratt said development opportunities in Minehead, Williton, Washford, and Norton Fitzwarren were being progressed but would take a number of years to deliver.