The first phase of Mid Cornwall Metro services have started operating, with local business leaders welcoming the significantly enhanced train service between Newquay and Par.

From 18 May, trains are running hourly between Newquay and Par, more than doubling the previous timetable and delivering the most frequent service on the line for more than 60 years.

Mark Warren, manager of Newquay Business Improvement District, said: “Now, having a consistent hourly service, it’s going to make the train the easy way to travel into Newquay, which means we’re going to be busier for longer. People can stay later. It’s a win-win for businesses, for locals, for tourists.”

The full Mid Cornwall Metro service is due to begin next year, introducing direct trains from Newquay to Falmouth via Par, St Austell and Truro, linking some of Cornwall’s largest towns with a single service.

The £57m project, funded by the UK Government and Cornwall Council, has been enabled by extensive upgrades carried out by Network Rail along the Newquay to Par line.

Work included restoring a second platform at Newquay station, building a new passing loop at Goss Moor to allow trains to run in both directions at the same time, installing digital signalling, replacing track near St Blazey, and completing a major refurbishment of the 153-year-old Ponts Mill viaduct.

Chris Fuoco, Network Rail's Western route programme director for Devon and Cornwall, said: “We’re thrilled to have reached this important milestone in delivering Mid Cornwall Metro. The upgrades we’ve completed mean we can run more frequent and more reliable services, helping to better connect communities and support local economic growth.”