A new type of open access operator has signed a Track Access Contract with Network Rail.

Go-op is a co-operative venture which is planning to run services through Somerset and Wiltshire between Taunton and Swindon, serving towns like Frome and Melksham en route.

All previous open access operators have been for-profit, but Go-op is owned by its members. It is now seeking investment partners who will provide the rest of the £2.5 million needed to launch the service.

It now has an opportunity of using tri-mode Class 769 units rather than Class 150s. The 769s are conversions of dual-voltage Class 319 units built for Thameslink in the late 1980s, which now have diesel engines as well to generate traction power.

Go-op is also campaigning for some stations in its area to be reopened. These include Wellington and Somerton – towns which have grown considerably over the past 60 years 

Go-op’s strategy director Danny Douglas said: ‘We’ve demonstrated that there is an approach to open access rail that complements the nationalised operator. This can bring a focus on local connectivity whilst sustainably bringing growth to communities their regions. Go-op are now keen to talk to local government who want to enter partnerships across the country about how they can do the same thing in their area with Go-op.’

Vice chair David Northey said: ‘This is the moment to commit to a new station at Somerton. Government assurances could “crowd in” funding from a variety of sources, and we’re ready to pick up passengers there from day one.

Go-op chairman Alex Lawrie added: ‘We can make good use of the upgrades proposed in the Wiltshire Strategic Rail Study to increase capacity through Melksham. What we need now is strategic partnerships with a small number of specialist investors who see the connection between our operations and the big capital projects in the area that have gained momentum on the strength of our track access contract. From housing and buses to leisure and energy developments, Go-op is the catalyst for growth across the region.’

Do you have a comment? Please click here  to send an email to Platform at Railnews.

 Moderated comments will be published on this site, and may also be used in the next print edition.