Network Rail has started its final stages of design for the planned construction of a three-mile section of track that will allow more trains to run from London to Exeter via Salisbury.

The planned new track will be installed alongside the existing single-line railway at Axminster to provide a passing loop for trains running on the West of England Line. The enhancement to the railway will enable South West Trains to meet their franchise commitment to run an hourly service between London Waterloo and Exeter.

Design work will focus on the laying of track approximately a mile and a half either side of Axminster Station and the introduction of a new signalling system.

Under the plans, the station itself will see a new platform constructed, together with a footbridge to link this and the existing platform. The design of the loop will also take into account potential future enhancements on the line.

Network Rail’s Wessex Route Director David Pape said: “We are committed to further developing this project, which aims to provide more trains on the West of England Line, thus delivering the growth that will encourage more people to use the railway. We are now taking forward the design of the project and will continue to work hard to progress these improvements.”