People in Corsham are being urged to share their views on the proposals for a new railway station before it can move to the next stage.

Wiltshire Council, Corsham Town Council and other local stakeholders are seeking feedback on the current proposals through a survey.

The current proposals are at an early stage of development but outline plans to create a two-platform station linking the town with services to Bath, Bristol, London and the Thames Valley.

Wiltshire Times: The former engine house at Corsham Railway Station. Photo: Ben CroftThe former engine house at Corsham Railway Station. Photo: Ben Croft

The project has received a £50,000 grant from the Department for Transport.

But there are stages the plans have to go through before going ahead, including the ‘Strategic Outline Business Case’ that outlines people’s views that will be submitted in the autumn- and then the final stage is the ‘Full Business Case.’

If the project passes the key phases quickly- it is then estimated that work to build the new station could begin in 2026 and be ready to go in 2028.

Cllr Dr Mark McClelland, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Proposals for a station in Corsham are at an early stage, but this is a hugely exciting project for the town and the wider area that could attract businesses and jobs to the town, as well as provide leisure and easy sustainable commuting opportunities to Bristol, Bath, London or the Thames Valley.

“We’re currently working with partners, including Michelle Donelan MP, Corsham Town Council, GWR, Network Rail, TransWilts and other local stakeholders, to help shape the initial Strategic Outline Business Case for the project, and that’s why we want to hear from people now, as their views will help to support this project.

“As part of our council business plan, we’re committed to having vibrant, well-connected communities, and a new station in Corsham would deliver on that for the people of the town and the surrounding area.

“There are several steps and a number of years before we can say that this project can get the green light, but we’re keen to start it off on the right track – and that’s why we’re seeking valuable feedback at this early stage.”

Cllr Steve Abbott, Corsham Town Council Chairman said “We are very pleased to be supporting the work that is being done to make the case for a new rail station for Corsham. I urge everybody with an interest in having a new station to complete the survey and help bring this vision to reality.”