The GW RUS also recommends development of the proposal to introduce a West Wiltshire shuttle operation, to run between Westbury and Swindon directly so as to serve Melksham more frequently, and establish a regular rail link between the county town of Trowbridge and Chippenham on the Great Western Main Line. The GW RUS notes that further demand forecasting work on this proposal is necessary.

Consideration is being given to gauge enhancement over the section between Salisbury, Westbury and Melksham, for Southampton – West Coast Main Line traffic as a diversionary route in addition to the Eastleigh and Laverstock (east of Salisbury) alternative to the South Western main line route through Winchester.

Growing volumes of freight and passenger movements at Westbury have given rise to its identification as a localised pinch point for performance, and the GW RUS recommends the development of an additional platform face to better address needs at and around the station and its access to the yard. This would also play a part in mitigation works ahead of the future major Reading remodelling when more diverted trains will require pass through the Westbury complex..