PLANNING delays have put Corsham's long-awaited railway station plans back another six months, dashing hopes for a re-opening in 2002.

Planning applications will now be presented in January 2002, putting the start of work to July 2002, with an opening around March 2003.

Campaigners who have fought a long battle for the station were dismayed the scheme had been delayed yet again.

Coun Peter Davis said at a meeting of Corsham Town Council on Monday that the delays were not of the county council's making, but down to the difficulties of dealing with the layers of the rail industry. "We remain committed to delivering the station, and the new programme is realistic," he said.

The station, to be located below Pound Mead, will enable travellers from Corsham to reach Bath in eight minutes.