Platform 2 at Exeter's St James Park is a small platform. In 2016/17 87,804 recorded persons used this station.

Although there are two platforms, the northernmost platform (Platform 2 - toward Exmouth) is very short (about 37m) and can only be served by a one or two (20m) coach train. Other train formations such as a Class 158 must use selective door opening or single door opening at the front carrage.

(The Exeter-bound platform (Platform 1) is longer about 73m in length). 

The station is a victim of it's own success. A built up residential and student accomodation area with limited car parking and a Football league stadium adjacent to the station that will soon be able to accommodate around 9,000 spectator on their match days after recent investment and development. 

The volume of passengers at this popular halt has resulted in train services being suspended on certain days where the Football and Rugby Club's respective fixtures clash. Supporters of both these clubs are now asked to board at Exeter Central to venture to their Sandy Park ground (Digby Station) and to alight at this same station and walk over a mile to the St James Park Football stadium, or to their homes in the area.

This has a negative impact on the local area and Exeter. This is a public transport service that is not providing a service. A station just yards away from a Stadium that you are denied to travel too all because too many people want to use it! With sometimes one door for exit and entry for 100s of commuters it is now deemed a safety issue as well as time delaying on the rail network.

If the platform 2 was extended then all doors of a 2 or 4 unit train could be utilised and the issue would be resolved for the good of everyone. 

Great Western Railways manage the station and operate the train services. Network Rail maintain the station and line. Devon County Council and Exeter City Council have a duty within their transport strategies to reduce car use, reduce air pollution and endourse and encourage the use of public transport. I therefore encourage the above organisations to get together and work on this simple solution for the long term good of all. 

(For many years now supporters of the football club along with local residents have worked together to paint, de-weed, plant attractive shrubs, cleaned and enhance the station. For it not to be used at it's maximum potential must make many feel dejected).

Please sign and share this petition. Please leave any comments or suggestions too. Please make this happen. Thank You.