Focal was formed in 2005 by a group of people dedicated to the support of the development of the Newquay Branch Line to provide an improved local service for our communities and for visitors.

The Newquay Branch Line runs from Par to Newquay in Cornwall.  Referred to locally as ‘The Atlantic Coast Line’ it is an important transport link between the north (Atlantic) & south (English Channel) coasts of Cornwall.

Its purpose is to serve the communities through which the railway runs, to feed the tourist resort of Newquay with visitors, to provide passengers with a connection to mainline services at Par, and to transport china clay.  The service, however, is very limited with regards to residents' needs, particularly out-of-season.

Focal's ultimate goal is the development of an extended and improved Branch Line service through the development of a Rail Loop linking Newquay and Par with St Austell and St Dennis.

Our present activities cover four key areas that we believe we need to pursue to help achieve that goal, and an optimum local service, recognising that this can only be carried out in partnership with all stakeholders directly and indirectly involved with the Branch Line.

The four key areas are:

• Improving the current timetable and frequency of local trains through a phased development programme with FGW.

• Ensuring that the re-development of Newquay Railway Station does not prohibit any proposed development of the Branch Line.

• Maintaining and improving current facilities on the Branch Line and improved communications and facilities on all stations from Par to Newquay.

• Pursuing market initiatives to increase promotion of the line and its usage.

Please take the time to read about our plans in this web site, and should you feel inspired to do so, join Focal and help us progress our cause.

In November 2007 Focal registered a Community Interest Company (CIC) with the aim of attracting funding for feasibility studies and other activities (read more...)