Experience The Future of Cornwall Transport with Virtual Reality Event

Cornwall is set to embark on a significant transformation of its transport links with the introduction of the Mid Cornwall Metro. Residents are invited to a unique event at the Hotel Victoria in Newquay on February 9 and 10, 2024, to experience firsthand how this initiative will reshape travel in the region.

The event offers a cutting-edge virtual reality experience, allowing participants to take a simulated balloon ride over the planned Mid Cornwall Metro route. This immersive journey will showcase the extensive upgrades planned for the rail links between Newquay, St Austell, Truro, and Falmouth/Penryn, which are key to enhancing connections to employment, education, and services.

Significant improvements are in store, including a new platform at Newquay for increased train frequency, a passing loop at Goss Moor for seamless operation of local and national rail services, and enhanced facilities at Par and Penryn stations. These upgrades aim to encourage active travel, with new cycle parking, widened paths, and improved crossing points.

The Mid Cornwall Metro, backed by Cornwall Council and £50 million from the government’s Levelling Up Funding, is a £56.8 million initiative. Rail Minister Huw Merriman lauded the scheme as a testament to the government’s commitment to improving regional transport. He emphasised that these events provide an excellent opportunity for locals to understand the extensive transport improvements that are underway.

Councillor Richard Williams-Pears, the Council’s portfolio holder for transport, expressed enthusiasm for sharing this virtual reality experience with residents. He highlighted that the Mid Cornwall Metro is a crucial step towards a sustainable and thriving Cornwall. This initiative aims to promote more active lifestyles, reduce carbon emissions, and alleviate traffic congestion.

The project will introduce an hourly direct train service connecting major towns, enhance accessibility at stations, and introduce digital ticketing solutions. These improvements are expected to increase rail service frequency, reduce journey times, and improve overall connectivity in the region.

Louis Gardner of Cornwall Council’s cabinet and Tom Pierpoint from GWR, along with Alexander Maltby of Network Rail, echoed the project’s benefits. They emphasised its potential to connect communities, boost the economy, and transform Cornwall’s railway.

Additional engagement events are scheduled at the University campus at Tremough and the Temperance Hall in Penryn in early March.

You can find more information and regular updates on the Mid Cornwall Metro project at the newly launched website: https://midcornwallmetro.com/.