Disruption has been felt across Paignton and its surrounding areas following a devastating fire at Paignton railway station earlier this week. British Transport Police confirmed that three teenagers, aged 13, 15, and 16, were arrested on Tuesday evening in connection with the blaze, which broke out around 05:45 BST.
The major fire prompted an immediate emergency response from seven fire crews, who worked to bring the incident under control. While fortunately there were no reported injuries, the severity of the damage has caused extensive disruption, resulting in the cancellation of train services between Newton Abbot and Paignton and forcing road closures in the town centre.
Passengers have been advised that Great Western Railway services from Exmouth will now terminate at Newton Abbot, with a limited shuttle service operating between Newton Abbot and Torquay, calling at Torre. Rail replacement buses are also running between Newton Abbot and Paignton, serving Torre and Torquay, to facilitate travel for those affected by the fire. Additionally, passengers can use their train tickets on several Stagecoach bus routes at no extra cost, covering destinations such as Exeter, Newton Abbot, Teignmouth, Torquay, and Paignton.
Daryn McCombe, Network Rail and Great Western Railway's network operations director, has expressed the organisations' shared sense of loss, describing Paighton station as a "familiar landmark at the heart of the town." He assured the public that every effort is being made to restore services as quickly as possible, with specialist teams conducting essential inspections of the damaged station building and surrounding railway infrastructure.
As detectives continue their investigation into the cause of the fire, they are appealing for information from the public. The incident has highlighted the vulnerability of key transport infrastructure and the significant impact such events can have on local communities and travel networks, underscoring the need for vigilance and cooperation in maintaining public safety.
Those with any information regarding the blaze should contact British Transport Police or call Crimestoppers anonymously. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.