| Brian Mathew MP - in support of improving use of rail network for communities Posted by grahame at 06:56, 13th June 2026 |     |
From our MP's Newsletter (Brian Mathew, MP for Melksham and Devizes)
Speaking Up for Better Rail Services
This week I spoke during the Railways Bill debate in Parliament to make the case for better rail services across Wiltshire.
Wiltshire sits on a substantial rail network, yet too often our communities are simply passed through rather than properly served.
I highlighted the fact that Melksham still receives an average of only one train every two hours despite significant population growth, while over 30,000 people living around Devizes remain without direct rail access despite railway lines passing close by.
I argued that if the Government is serious about economic growth, sustainable transport and reducing congestion, then rural counties like Wiltshire must not be left behind.
That means improving services, supporting plans for Devizes Gateway Station, delivering more frequent local rail connections and ensuring that market towns can benefit from the opportunities that rail can bring.
Rail investment should not be reserved solely for major cities. Rural communities deserve modern, reliable and frequent public transport too.
This week I spoke during the Railways Bill debate in Parliament to make the case for better rail services across Wiltshire.
Wiltshire sits on a substantial rail network, yet too often our communities are simply passed through rather than properly served.
I highlighted the fact that Melksham still receives an average of only one train every two hours despite significant population growth, while over 30,000 people living around Devizes remain without direct rail access despite railway lines passing close by.
I argued that if the Government is serious about economic growth, sustainable transport and reducing congestion, then rural counties like Wiltshire must not be left behind.
That means improving services, supporting plans for Devizes Gateway Station, delivering more frequent local rail connections and ensuring that market towns can benefit from the opportunities that rail can bring.
Rail investment should not be reserved solely for major cities. Rural communities deserve modern, reliable and frequent public transport too.
Not a one-off call from Dr Mathew - he is consistent in his calls along these lines, and IMHO what he calls for makes sense and is practical to be done and to be financially, environmentally and quality-of-life effective.
