The new Okehampton Interchange station has moved a significant step closer to completion after a key stage of construction was finished.

Work to install the lift shaft, footbridge span and staircase has now been completed, marking visible progress on the £15 million project, which is scheduled to open to passengers in summer 2026.

The fully accessible station, being delivered by Network Rail and contractor Octavius, will be the newest addition to the Dartmoor Line. It is designed to complement the existing Okehampton station and provide an hourly service connecting West Devon, Torridge and North Cornwall with Exeter and beyond.

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The scheme is being funded through a successful bid by Devon County Council and West Devon Borough Council for Government support, alongside contributions from both authorities.

Construction of the new infrastructure required a 350-tonne crane to operate over three midweek nights. Steel structures were lifted into place from the future station car park across the railway, including the lift shaft, four supporting columns for the staircase and three staircase sections. The 25-metre-long footbridge was also installed in two parts, positioned six metres above the track to link the 200-space car park with the new 100-metre platform.

Network Rail industry programme director Bogdan Lupu said: "Our plans are now coming to life and the footbridge platform structure is now in place, marking a major milestone in the project's progress.

"Everyone can now see it really coming together and our work continues to get passengers onto the platform as soon as possible."

Work will continue into next year, with construction expected to be complete by spring 2025, ahead of the station’s opening in summer 2026.