New open access operator given go-ahead to launch service between Swindon and Taunton

A new open access operator has been given the go-ahead to launch a new regional service in the South West.

Go-op, a co-operatively owned operator, plans to launch new regional services between Swindon, Taunton and Weston-super-Mare, and Frome and Westbury, from as early as December 2025.

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has approved track access rights until December 2030, making Go-op the first regional open access operator in the UK which will compete with Great Western Railway.

Go-op plans to run five return services on its core route between Taunton and Swindon but will also run a couple of daily trips from Taunton-Westbury, Frome-Westbury and Weston-super-Mare-Taunton. Trains will also call at stations such as Melksham and Castle Cary.

Go-op Chairman, Alex Lawrie told RAIL: “We would like to be in the December 2025 timetable, then phase services in gradually.”

In her letter to Go-op, ORR’s Director, Strategy, Policy & Reform, Stephanie Tobyn, said: “We placed weight on the beneficial aspects of introducing new open access competition on regional routes on the Western route. These include providing new rail journey opportunities for passengers across Wiltshire and Somerset, and greater interchange opportunities for commuters travelling on to London and Bristol.”

Go-op plans to use Class 153s, while it must also provide evidence to the ORR of the necessary finance to start operations, fund level crossing enhancements and show the rolling stock has been secured no later than November 2025.

Martin Jones, Deputy Director, Access, Licensing & International at ORR, described the proposal as “novel” and one that “can benefit passengers across Somerset and Wiltshire”.