Tensions Erupt Over Saltford Railway Station Reopening Campaign

A dispute has emerged regarding the campaign to reopen Saltford Railway Station as local councillors debate the credit for recent progress. The controversy centers on comments made by Duncan Hounsell, one of Saltford’s councillors, during a council meeting on July 17, 2023. Hounsell asserted that the advancements in the project are due to the efforts of Liberal Democrat councillors and Bath and North East Somerset Council (B&NES) officers, dismissing contributions from other campaigners.

Chris Warren, who founded the campaign to reopen the station in 2011 and was recently elected as one of Saltford’s councillors, responded strongly to Hounsell’s comments. He expressed his disbelief at what he termed the “rewriting of history.” Warren emphasized his ongoing leadership in the campaign and suggested that Hounsell’s comments were an attempt to downplay the grassroots efforts that have been crucial to the cause.

At the council meeting, Hounsell stated, “These positive steps I have described are all the consequence of the work and actions of Liberal Democrat councillors, B&NES officers, and others — and not anyone posturing on the sidelines.” He reaffirmed his support for the slogan “Saltford Station, bring it on,” which he believes reflects the recent momentum of the project.

Warren, who was not present at the meeting, countered that he has been a key figure in the campaign and has dedicated significant time to its efforts. “I was the founder and still am the leader of the campaign,” he said. “It’s because I won the byelection that the Lib Dems are suddenly keen on it again.”

Another campaign member, Robert Taylor, voiced his frustration with Hounsell’s comments, stating, “This ridiculous statement made by Duncan Hounsell at the full council meeting on July 17 upsets me no end.” Taylor highlighted the extensive work that has been done by various members of the community, including distributing literature and engaging with political representatives.

“The tremendous effort and support has been given by the Parish Council and the Saltford Environment Group,” Taylor noted, emphasizing the collective nature of the campaign. He also mentioned that Hounsell had been involved in creating the “Saltford Station, bring it back” slogan, suggesting that the success of the campaign should be recognized as a community effort rather than attributed solely to one political party.

In response, Hounsell defended his remarks, stating that his intention was to highlight the collaborative work over recent years. He clarified, “I never mentioned Chris Warren at all,” asserting that the progress made has been a collective effort.

The discussions over the station reopening have intensified as plans move towards developing a business case. With strong feelings on both sides, the future of Saltford Railway Station remains a focal point for local residents and politicians alike. The debate underscores not only the desire for better transport links but also the importance of recognizing the contributions of all involved in the campaign.

As the project continues to advance, the community remains hopeful that the reopening of the station will soon become a reality, fostering further dialogue and collaboration among local stakeholders.