Greengauge 21’s latest report sets out the case for a transformational economic opportunity across Devon and Cornwall — and the vital role that resilient transport connectivity must play in securing it.
As Jim Steer, Director, Greengauge 21 explains; the report “shines a light on the prospect of a huge regional-scale economic stimulus in Devon and Cornwall.” But he cautions that this opportunity “could be squandered if the region’s transport links are left in their current fragile state.”
The analysis identifies three powerful economic forces now converging in the South West: rising housing demand and supply, the growth of new industries, and significant investment in nationally important defence assets. Combined with the shift away from five-day office attendance, these trends are encouraging people and businesses to see the merit of living and operating year-round in Devon and Cornwall.
To capitalise on this moment, the report argues that dependable, all-weather rail links are essential. The South West’s vulnerability is stark: Plymouth is the only city of its size and significance without a motorway connection and is reliant on a single, sometimes fragile, rail route to the rest of the country.
Greengauge 21 sets out a practical and deliverable solution — the creation of a second rail connection to Plymouth, restoring Tavistock to the national rail network and transforming resilience across the region. The success of reopening the Exeter–Okehampton line four years ago, which has exceeded expectations, demonstrates why the next stage onward to Plymouth is now so critical.
The report also highlights the urgent need to strengthen rail routes east of Exeter, ensuring that both the Paddington and Waterloo corridors are fit for purpose. With road investment schemes on the A303 and A358 abandoned, “make-do and mend has run its course.” A resilient railway is essential to support both passenger growth and increasing rail freight demand.
For the Salisbury–Exeter route, the report notes that private sector investment is already lining up to fund the necessary improvements — underlining that solutions exist and that the time to act is now.
You can read the full report here: Delivering South West England’s New Economy
We actively encourage people to use our work, and simply request that the use of any of our material is credited to Greengauge 21 in the following way: Greengauge 21, Title, Date