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Plymouth Marjon in support of new South West railcard

Released: 12.06.25

Professor Claire Taylor

In a letter to Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill CBE in the House of Lords, Professor Claire Taylor, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Plymouth Marjon University, signalled her support for the proposed Peninsula Railcard. 

The proposal was organised by Councillor Andrea Davis, Chair of the Peninsula Rail Task Force, and aims to reduce the cost of rail travel in the Southwest. The task force represents Cornwall, Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay, and is asking for a railcard which would provide:

  • A 50% discount for all rail travel between the peninsula's 84 stations
  • No restrictions on the time of day
  • Valid usage of the railcard on all peninsula lines
  • No age restrictions

The proposed railcard would cost £12 and would last for 12 months, replacing the current Devon and Cornwall railcard. 

Professor Taylor's letter reads:

"We are writing to express our support for the proposed Peninsula Railcard, an initiative being developed by the Peninsula Rail Task Force in collaboration with GWR and the Department for Transport. We understand this new railcard is poised to significantly benefit residents, businesses, and educational institutions across Cornwall, Devon, Plymouth, Somerset, and Torbay, and we endorse its swift introduction.
 
"From our perspective as a university based in Plymouth, the benefits of the railcard are multifaceted:

    • Enhanced Accessibility and Affordability: For our students, this railcard will significantly reduce the cost of commuting and travelling throughout the peninsula. This is particularly vital in addressing the cost-of-living challenges faced by many, making education, employment, and regional opportunities more accessible and affordable.
    • Promotion of Sustainable Travel: By making rail travel significantly more economical and convenient, the Peninsula Railcard will undoubtedly encourage a shift away from private car usage, contributing positively to our region's environmental goals and reducing congestion.
    • Regional Connectivity and Economic Growth: The expansive coverage and ease of use will foster greater connectivity between our communities. It will enable easier access to diverse employment opportunities, educational institutions, cultural sites, and business networks across the entire peninsula, thereby stimulating local economies and promoting regional cohesion.
    • Support for Recruitment and Retention: For organisations like ours, being in a region with such an accessible and affordable public transport network makes us a more attractive prospect for potential students, aiding in recruitment and retention efforts.

"We understand that the aim is to introduce the Peninsula Railcard in September 2025. We strongly urge you to support this timeline. A September launch is critically important as it coincides with the return of regular travel patterns after the summer holidays and the commencement of new academic terms. This timing would ensure immediate and widespread uptake, maximising the positive impact from day one for commuters, students, and businesses alike.
 
"The Peninsula Railcard represents a significant step forward in improving regional transport infrastructure and affordability. It is a well-considered initiative that promises tangible benefits for countless individuals and organisations."

 

The Peninsula Rail Task Force is working with the Department for Transport and GWR to introduce the railcard in September 2025, in time for the return of regular travel patterns after the summer, but requires the widespread support of organisations and leaders from across the region.

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