Bidders for the new Greater Western railway franchise which covers London to the South West, London to Bristol, London to South Wales, all local and most crosscountry services in the area have been asked to submit bids based on a drastically reduced service level for some lines.

In particular, the Swindon to Southampton service has been slated for complete withdrawal, removing all direct trains between Salisbury and Swindon and reducing the direct service from the county town of Trowbridge to Swindon to just 2 trains a day.  It also slashes train services to Melksham by 68%.  The changes would take place in December 2006.

Train use at Melksham increased by 35% in the year to April 2005, with some 27435 ticket sales for rail journeys to or from the town.

A group of people is working in Melksham to campaign for a drastic improvement in the proposed level of service from December 2006 - not necessarily in line with the existing service, but rather  to provide a service that meets the travel needs of the West Wilts Corridor.

The inaugural meeting took place on 20th September, with some 25 people in attendance. This  group will be working to survey requirements, to suggest practical options, and to lobby for the most appropriate option to be implemented.  We will also be working with the current operator to help improve passenger numbers and visibility of the line further.  The group has widespread support from interested parties such as local government, user groups, train operating companies and elected representatives.