Motorists parking at Widnes railway station will soon have an improved start to their journey as much-needed refurbishment of the car park is well underway.
The £325,000 project, developed by Halton Borough Council in conjunction with Network Rail and Northern Rail, involves the building of an extended car park as well as refurbishment of the existing one. This will more than double the size of the car park as well as providing a pick up / drop off point for commuters.
Improvements include new lighting, 24-hour CCTV, fencing, a height restriction barrier, new kerbs, surfaces and drainage.
The CCTV uses fixed cameras which do not overlook residential properties, and the lighting will only operate within train timetables.
The scheme is funded through the Local Transport Plan and work is due to be completed in June.
Leader of Halton Borough Council, Cllr Rob Polhill, said: “These improvements are very much welcomed as the car park has long been in need of expansion.
“We always promote the use and benefits of rail travel, and this station provides an important transport link for local people. The extended and refurbished car park will help encourage more people to use the train.”
Halton MP Derek Twigg commented: “I was very pleased to visit and see the commencement of the further improvement work at Widnes Station. Improved car parking and increased security with CCTV will make Widnes Station an even more attractive place to travel from for local people and businesses. Better perimeter fencing will also benefit local residents.”
Jo Kaye, Network Rail’s route director, said: “Building new car parks or extending existing facilities demonstrates true integrated transport – passengers driving short distances to their local station to make the longer part of their journey by rail. I am pleased that we have been able to work with Halton and Northern for the benefit of the community.”
Lee Wasnidge, Area Director, Northern Rail, added: “We were pleased to work with our partners and stakeholders to provide a better travelling experience for our customers, and this is something we always try hard to achieve. Improving the car park will create a better integrated transport facility at Widnes and encourage more people to travel by train.”
