Transport bosses host “Station Friends” seminar

Date published: 26/10/2009

People will be able to find out about how they can have a hands-on role in improving their local railway station at a public meeting next week.

Greater Manchester Integrated Transport Authority (GMITA) is holding a seminar on Thursday 5 November to discuss the innovative ‘Station Friends’ scheme, where community groups and individuals help to improve the appearance of their local station.

Representatives from the Association of Community Rail Partnerships (ACoRP), Network Rail and Northern Rail will be giving presentations on various aspects of the scheme, as will members of existing ‘Station Friends’ groups – including Friends of Glossop, who won Best Station Adoption Group at the 2009 Community Rail Awards in September.

Councillor Doreen Dickinson, Chair of GMITA’s Rail and Metrolink Networks Committee, said: “Station Friends schemes are an effective and innovative way of keeping stations attractive, and of improving station facilities.

“This seminar is a wonderful opportunity to find out more for anyone interested in their local railway station, or for people who want to help to improve our rail network.

“If people have any concerns about their local station, I would strongly encourage them to attend.”

The seminar will include a photographic exhibition of some of the work done by groups at rail stations across Greater Manchester.

Registration for the event, which will be held in the Council Chamber at Manchester Town Hall, will be at 10.30am for an 11am start. Places can be reserved in advance by calling 0161 234 4619.