Early train is ‘great news’ for commuters

The new service, which will begin operating in December, will depart from Cam and Dursley at 6.43am, arriving in Gloucester at 7am.

David Smith, of the Cam and Dursley Transportation Group, first raised the need for an earlier service with the district’s then MP Neil Carmichael several years ago.

“We’ve been lobbying hard for this for years,” he said.

“It’s great news, not only for those working in Gloucester but for anyone who needs to get further afield too. Those travelling to places such as Birmingham, Manchester or Newcastle can arrive at their destination much earlier than previously.”

GWR station manager for Cam & Dursley, Sally Fouracre said: “While December may seem a long time away for many, we have been working hard behind the scenes to prepare to implement the biggest timetable change on this network since 1976, enabling us to take advantage of the full benefits that new Intercity Express Trains are bringing.

“This will include earlier and later trains between Cheltenham and London, and subsequently earlier services to Gloucester, supporting the local economy.

“In providing more frequent and quicker journeys, our new timetable will for the vast majority of users quite literally mean ‘all change please’ and we are looking forward to publishing further details soon.”

David Drew, Labour MP for Stroud constituency which includes Cam and Dursley, said: “I’m very pleased that there are more options for rail users, particularly for those travelling from Cam and Dursley, where many constituents tell me that the lack of transport options affects their work and education opportunities.

“Transport is particularly crucial in rural areas, so this is a great addition which also well as encourages and enables people to choose greener transport options. Having attended a meeting called by Cam Parish Council on the acute parking problem at the station it is vital that we also address that issue as well.”