Network Rail and Pembrokeshire County Council have agreed to look in detail at the feasibility of reopening Fishguard & Goodwick Station.
"no insurmountable issues"
The decision comes after a site meeting attended by officers from both authorities at the existing station, which has been closed for decades.
They were faced with a weed-infested platform, a big gap between it and the track (created when the track was relaid after the station closed) and, perhaps most seriously, a curving platform. All these problems would have to be addressed before the station can reopen to the public.
Despite this, officials came away declaring there were “no insurmountable issues” to rebuilding. For example the gap between platform and track could be addressed when the platform surface is relaid. As for the curve in the platform – unacceptable in Network Rail’s rulebook – one question is whether a section of platform long enough for the expected single coach trains may be all that is needed.
Both authorities will now study the questions in detail, aware that there is currently no budget for any work at Goodwick. With the Welsh government already committing £1.4 million yearly to a three-year trial service between Fishguard and Carmarthen, concerns about poor passenger access at the Fishguard end are mounting. Former Transport Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones’ announcement came “out of the blue”, catching everyone including Network Rail and Pembrokeshire County Council, by surprise.
Today’s news is the first clear sign of a chance for a sensible terminal for Fishguard’s new trains.
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