Plans by Crosscountry Trains to scrap the majority of their direct services from Manchester
and Birmingham to Paignton have been strongly opposed by thousands of local residents,
businesses and Torbay Conservatives.

The plans would see the 7 direct services currently provided reduced to just 1 train leaving
Paignton at 7:02am. Instead of a convenient direct express service, Crosscountry is
suggesting that passengers change at Exeter to use crowded commuter trains instead.

Thousands of residents signed the “Save Our Trains” Petition, supported by our local
Newspaper, calling for a rethink. Kevin Foster MP challenged Ministers in Parliament to save
our services and said: “These plans would not just make it more difficult for Tourists with
luggage to reach Paignton, but send a negative message to potential investors. Ministers will
take the final decision and it is vital they realize the full impact they would have on Paignton if
approved.