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New look Central Station is major boost to rail passengers in Exeter

Saturday, 6 June 2026 10:00

By Chris Collman

Council Leader Phil Bialyk has welcomed a £2.7m investment to transform Exeter Central – one of the busiest railway stations in the South West.

The station, which accommodated almost three million passengers a year, now boasts an expanded concourse, smart-ticket gatelines, an open-plan customer assistance desk and brand-new retail space.

It has been funded by a special programme designed to support projects that reduce costs and increase revenue, along with a contribution from the Department for Transport.

The Industry Revenue Generating Investment (IRGI) programme is managed by Network Rail and targets schemes that are financially positive and reduce overall costs to Government.

The expansion of the concourse area and new smart-ticket gatelines directly address a long-standing frustration for local commuters.

By eliminating peak-time bottlenecks and overcrowding on stairwells, particularly for large sporting events and Christmas markets, the project delivers a safer, much more reliable environment. It also means gatelines remain in use at those busiest times, ensuring revenue streams are maintained.

The transition to an open-plan customer assistance desk is designed to ensure the station is more welcoming and inclusive, particularly for elderly residents, families and passengers with reduced mobility.

And the inclusion of a brand-new retail space creates new business opportunities, enabling Exeter Central to become a supportive hub for the city centre.

The improvements were formally marked by invited guests, including Exeter MP Steve Race, on Friday.

Cllr Bialyk said: “I very much welcome these major improvements at Exeter Central station. This is a great investment by Network Rail in the city’s transport infrastructure, which will significantly improve the experience for passengers.

“Rail travel is a great way for people to get in and out of Exeter, and I am so pleased that these improvements will ensure that Exeter Central – which is such a key city centre gateway – will continue to thrive in the future.

“Exeter is a fast-growing city which has seen a significant increase in rail passengers in recent years, and Exeter Central is now one of the busiest stations in the South West.

“Its continued success benefits the whole city, by supporting sustainable growth and ensuring Exeter remains an accessible and vibrant destination.”

GWR and Network Rail Western Joint Route Strategy Director, Joanna Grew, said: “These improvements have been designed with the customer at heart.

“By creating more space, improving the flow of passengers through the station and introducing new smart ticket gates, we have made it easier and safer for people to move around, particularly during the busiest periods.

“The expanded concourse and open-plan customer assistance area will help us provide a more welcoming and accessible experience for everyone.

“We know how important it is that customers feel confident, comfortable and safe when travelling, and these upgrades will make a real difference to the millions of people who use Exeter Central every year.

“This investment demonstrates our commitment to improving the railway for the communities we serve, while ensuring Exeter Central continues to play a vital role as a gateway to the city.”

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