Network Rail has released new aerial photographs highlighting significant progress in the first six months of construction on the new Okehampton Interchange station, which is on track to open in 2026.

The £15 million project will become the latest addition to the Dartmoor Line, strengthening transport links between West Devon, Torridge, North Cornwall, Exeter, and the national rail network. The development is being funded by the Department for Transport (DfT), with additional support from Devon County Council and West Devon Borough Council.


Construction began in January on the outskirts of Okehampton, just two minutes from the A30. Since then, key milestones have been achieved. In March, 300 metres of the single-track railway were shifted 90 centimetres to the north to make room for a compliant station platform—something the original layout couldn't accommodate.

The track realignment included laying 1,000 tonnes of compacted ballast and installing 20 concrete sleepers. Critical drainage improvements were also completed, including the installation of two new chambers beneath the track and the addition of 300 tonnes of stone to facilitate water runoff.

In May, engineers installed 25 bored piles—each extending 12 metres into the ground—to provide the structural foundation for the platform, footbridge, and lift.

The next major phase of the build is scheduled for autumn, when the footbridge and lift shaft will be installed. Work is also underway on a 200-space car park and the construction of the station platform itself.