Dawlish Discussion

People have been asking why there is no service from the Warren into Exeter.  This is the reply I received from First Geat Western

" As you know, we are working closely with Network Rail to ensure we get rail services running as soon as possible.  We have looked at whether we can run services between Exeter and Dawlish Warren but have been advised that signalling remains an issue (Teignmouth has the same issue on the 'other side').  We will reinstate services as soon as Network Rail give us permission to do so.  I'm afraid I have no timescales for you on this but will let you know as soon as I hear. "

I was thinking the same Michael. Well done for bringing it up.

Solution  One train going back and forth and as far as signalling is concern in old days 

they had a metal loop which the driver had in his cab he had right of  way.

Jobs done.

Exactly. One train only on the track with a 25 minute journey time from Exeter Central would allow for an hourly service all day. It was soooo much easier in the old days.

I noticed on the news last night that system is in use in the Thames Valley so why not here?

Ah, the 'one train in steam solution'  - Best technical guess is that there may be an 'interfacing issue' with other movements at the Exeter end.  If you want to be more cynical, it may also be to do with costs vs. receipts !

Travel from Exeter at 5.30 when its a two carriage train and standing ...the guard cant get through the train (or rather keep out the way!) to take fares from unmanned and no ticket machine stations.  So re receipts ..they could be getting far more cash than they do!

So many people jump on at between, St Thomas, Starcross and Dawlish Warren and do not pay.

In the days of Beeching and BR nationalisation the accounts would be used to make a case!!!

So it could be said the cash returns from the guard show there is no need for more than two carriages . in fact three ot four carriages are needed.

Maybe the Union do not allow going to just Dawlish Warren?

Wondering, you were doing so well until your last sentence.