Excitement builds for new Okehampton station after billboard appears in town

A new billboard has been installed in Okehampton to promote the town’s second railway station, which is expected to open this summer.

The sign highlights the forthcoming Okehampton Interchange station, currently under construction as part of improvements to the Dartmoor Line.

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Posting on social media, Devon & Cornwall's Great Scenic Railways said: “Hurrah! Shiny new billboard in Okehampton to promote the town’s second station, which opens this summer. When the opening date is confirmed this will be added to the billboard.”

The Moorlander spoke to Mike Parker-Bray, Marketing & Communications Officer for Devon & Cornwall Rail Partnership, who told us the new advertisement went up yesterday (26 March) is located on East Street on the edge of the town.

He also informed us that the billboard is ‘supported by CrossCountry Trains’ Community Engagement Fund’.

Okehampton Interchange will be a new purpose-built station intended to complement the existing Okehampton railway station, which will remain open.

The project is being delivered with around £15 million in funding from central government, Devon County Council, West Devon Borough Council and Network Rail.

According to project information, the new station is designed to serve the growing eastern side of the town, reduce traffic through the town centre and relieve pressure on parking at the existing station.

Located close to the A30, the interchange is expected to improve access to rail services for residents of West Devon and North Cornwall travelling towards Exeter and beyond.

Plans for the site include cycle parking, electric vehicle charging points, improved walking and cycling routes, and bus connections, aimed at encouraging more sustainable travel.

Construction work has been ongoing, with recent updates showing the installation of a footbridge, lift shaft and continued work on the platform and car park.

Residents and train enthusiasts responding to the announcement online expressed a mixture of excitement, curiosity and debate.

One local welcomed the potential for increased tourism, saying: “And Okehampton Model Railway Club is right on the doorstep of the new station… I hope to see some visitors when it opens.”

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The Okehampton Model Railway Club added light-heartedly: “There should definitely be a sign on the platform ‘Change here for Okehampton Model Railway Club’.”

Some comments focused on the timing of the promotion, with one person stating they were looking forward to the station but felt it was “a bit early with the poster given it’s not open yet.”

In reply, Devon & Cornwall’s Great Scenic Railways said the billboard was part of the preparations and would be updated once an opening date is confirmed.

Other comments expressed simple enthusiasm, with comments such as “Awesome” and “Would love to visit,” reflecting anticipation ahead of the station’s launch.

No confirmed opening date has yet been announced, but the station is expected to begin operating in summer 2026.