FUNDING totally £4million is being invested into Great Malvern Station to restore the historic Victorian platform canopies and on improvements for passengers.
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The cash is being put up by Network Rail and will see overhead glazing replaced and ornate ironwork repainted.
The station was opened by the Worcester and Hereford Railway in 1860 and was awarded Grade II listed building status in 1969.
Despite being 162 years old, the station has retained many of its original Victorian features – including elaborate cast-iron girders supported by impressive sculptures of floral arrangements.
The project to restore the canopies started this week and is expected to be complete early next year.
Passengers have been assured the work would not impact on rail services but the look and the feel will be different while the restoration work takes place.
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Lawrence James, Network Rail scheme project manager, said: “It’s great to be returning to Great Malvern again and investing a significant amount to improve this picturesque station and secure its future for the next generation.
“Working on the canopy roofs and repainting the ironwork will not only benefit local people but also tourists who travel to the area and nearby Malvern Hills.”
Jonny Wiseman, customer experience director for station operator West Midlands Railway, said: “Great Malvern is a truly unique station which is regularly rated as one of the most attractive in the region.
“We are delighted to work with Network Rail to deliver this significant investment which will keep the station looking its best for many years to come.
“The station will look a little different for our customers while the work is completed but I am pleased that train services will continue to call at Great Malvern as usual throughout.”
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This latest investment comes after £8,000 was spent last year getting Great Malvern’s station clock working again after being stuck on the same time for over three years.
Click here to read more about – and see pictures of – the intricate Victorian clock restoration which took place last year.
Network Rail works hard to develop the railway for the 21st century, while keeping an eye on preserving its heritage.
Visit networkrail.co.uk/working-with-railway-heritage for more on Network Rail’s heritage work.
