IN recognition of its potential to bring more visitors to the town, East Devon District Council has waived the rental for the first 12 months for the use and storage of the land train in The Maer car park, Exmouth.

Visitors using the land train will also benefit from reduced parking with a full day costing just £3, instead of the usual £6.

The train will run from the Maer car park on the hour calling at several places along the seafront before heading inland at the marina and calling at the bus and train station at half past each hour.

It will then stop at the town centre before returning to The Maer via The Beacon and Louisa Terrace.

Councillor John Humphreys, East Devon District Council’s Exmouth champion, said: “We are pleased to support Stuart Line in this first year of operation to help establish the land train as a key tourist attraction.

"The land train is a great idea for both visitors and local people ensuring they can get around easily encouraging visits to the seafront, town centre and estuary without worrying about driving or parking.

"We want all our visitors to enjoy an outstanding experience in this fantastic town and to go away encouraging others to visit.”

After the first year of operation EDDC will review the rent and will expect the market rent to be charged in line with other leases throughout the town.

Car park charges and concessions will also be reviewed in the normal way.