Saltford Station Campaign Sparks Controversy Among Councillors

A dispute has emerged among local councillors regarding the campaign to reopen the railway station in Saltford, a village located in Bath and North East Somerset. The disagreement centers on claims of a “rewriting of history” related to the campaign’s origins and ongoing efforts.

Chris Warren, who founded the campaign in 2011 and was elected as one of the village’s two councillors in January 2023, has expressed frustration over comments made by Duncan Hounsell, the other councillor representing Saltford. Hounsell, who has served on the council since 2019, stated during a council meeting on July 17, 2023, that the recent progress towards developing a business case for the station was primarily due to the efforts of Liberal Democrat councillors and council officers, not those outside the political party.

Hounsell emphasized, “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 further expressed optimism for the station’s reopening, stating, “Saltford Station, bring it on,” as a new slogan reflecting the current momentum.

Warren, who has displayed a sign advocating for the station’s reopening at his residence, was not present at the meeting. He responded critically to Hounsell’s remarks, asserting, “I was the founder and still am the leader of the campaign. It’s because I won the byelection that the Lib Dems are suddenly keen on it again.” He believes the Liberal Democrats are attempting to overshadow the contributions of long-standing campaign members.

Another campaign member, Robert Taylor, echoed Warren’s sentiments, stating, “This ridiculous statement made by Duncan Hounsell at the full council meeting on July 17 upsets me no end because it completely dismisses the efforts made by everyone else that has been, and those still, involved in the station campaign.” Taylor highlighted the extensive work done by volunteers, including the creation and distribution of campaign literature and meetings with railway industry representatives.

Hounsell defended his position, clarifying that his statements were meant to acknowledge the collaborative efforts surrounding the project. He noted previous meetings with the former West of England Metro Mayor, Jon Godfrey, in December 2023, aimed at advancing the station project. Hounsell remarked, “I never mentioned Chris Warren at all,” and dismissed the idea that Warren’s recent election was the catalyst for renewed interest from the Liberal Democrats.

The conflict over the station campaign underscores the tensions within local politics, particularly as the prospect of reopening the station gains traction. Hounsell maintains that the recent developments have made the possibility of a station more likely, which he believes justifies the new slogan, “Saltford Station, bring it on.”

As the discussions continue, both sides highlight the importance of collaboration in achieving the long-sought goal of reopening the Saltford railway station. With growing public interest and renewed political engagement, the future of this project remains a significant topic within the community.