Published March 27, 2019 at 11:43
Rossendale Council has welcomed progress on the redevelopment of Rawtenstall Station.
Diggers moved in this week to begin work on building a new canopy which will eventually span the entire length and width of the station buildings. East Lancashire Railway says the £600,000 development will see
Rawtenstall Station redeveloped to ‘provide enhanced facilities for not only visitors to the East Lancashire Railway but the local community too’.
The redevelopment will also include:
• New Station Building – The construction of a 37 metre fully accessible building, accommodating a café, kitchen, activity/community room, tourist information centre and toilet and baby changing facilities.
• Alterations to Existing Station Building – The expansion of Buffer Stops Bar and relocation of current toilet facilities.
• New Station Forecourt – The attractive remodelling of existing outside space, including landscaping, sheltered cycle stands and picnic areas.
Cath Burns, Director of Economic Development, said:
The railway is an asset to the borough and so I’m delighted that the redevelopment work is now underway. This project is great news for Rawtenstall and the East Lancashire Railway. I look forward to seeing the new facilities emerging as the works progress.
Mike Kelly, East Lancashire Railway Chairman, said:
The design will keep the station’s traditional appearance, whilst boasting modern, high quality facilities. This is a great example of partnership working alongside Rossendale Borough Council and Lancashire County Council which I hope will see thousands of additional visitors using the new facilities and hopefully travelling on the railway.