The article, “Re-tracing the Withered Arm“, takes a trip down memory lane, following a bus route that replaced the train route closed by Beeching in 1966. The author, Gareth David, paints a vivid picture of the train’s history, highlighting the importance it once held for the region.
The closure of the railway is a sore spot for Gareth, who argues that the decision was short-sighted and detrimental to the area. The article goes on to criticize the bus service as an inadequate replacement. Overcrowding and inconvenience are just some of the issues plaguing the bus route.
Gareth also makes a compelling case for the positive impact a train route could have on certain towns, like Bude. We can of course, agree to that!
Overall, the article is a thought-provoking exploration of the challenges of transportation in rural areas. It serves as a reminder of the importance of considering the long-term consequences of infrastructure decisions.