Rebecca Smith MP, Member of Parliament for South West Devon, will participate in her first meeting of the new Transport Committee on 5th November, marking a notable moment in her continued efforts to improve the rail infrastructure in her constituency. The committee is formed of a cross-party group of MPs that scrutinises the work of the Department of Transport.
As an advocate for better rail services, Rebecca will use this platform to represent her constituents who need enhanced connectivity, focusing on key rail projects that are vital to the region’s economic growth and sustainability.
Rebecca’s commitment to improved rail infrastructure has been evident since her maiden speech in Parliament where she spoke at length about improving South West Devon’s rail network. Recently, she urged the Labour Government not to axe funding originally earmarked from HS2 for critical infrastructure projects, such as the Tavistock-Plymouth line. In interviews with the BBC, she reiterated the importance of keeping the £1.5 million necessary for completing the business case for this project, warning against delays that could set back construction for years.
The railway campaign is already gaining momentum, including support from groups like TavyRail and concerns from West Devon Borough Council about pressure on the A386 due to rising housing developments without a sustainable transport plan, as well as the need to better connect Dartmoor villages.
Rebecca Smith MP, Member of Parliament for South West Devon, stated:
The restoration of the Tavistock-Plymouth line is about unlocking the opportunity to do a metro rail link which is in the joint local plan, as well as connecting East Plymouth.
It’s there – if we want more homes and we want more jobs, we’ve got to provide the transport infrastructure, and I believe this money that was located from HS2 will able that work
Rebecca has also been at the forefront of the campaign to complete the remedial works at Dawlish, ensuring that her constituents remain connected to the rest of the UK by a resilient rail network. Beyond rail, her position on the Transport Committee gives her a platform to demand answers from the Government on bus networks, active travel and maritime transport, pushing for the investment the Southwest desperately needs.
