Passengers are benefiting from a range of new and better facilities at the newly refurbished Whaley Bridge station.

Network Rail has worked with Whaley Bridge Town Council and the Friends of Whaley Bridge to deliver the improvements which were officially opened today.

Three years ago the station had no passenger facilities and there were significant gaps between the train and platform, often making it awkward for passengers to get on or off trains.

Now, thanks to a £1.1m investment, passengers are able to access heated and secure waiting rooms on both platforms, along with a new ticket counter, toilet facilities and improved platforms which have reduced the gap between the train and platform, making access to trains easier.

The station buildings have been sympathetically restored and the waiting room is also available for local community events and displays.

Patrick Cawley, scheme sponsor from Network Rail said: “These improvements are a testament to the hard work of Whaley Bridge Town Council and the Friends of Whaley Bridge. Both have worked closely with Network Rail to make the upgrade of the station possible and to provide facilities which not only benefit the increasing number of passengers using the station but also the local community. The station is something Whaley Bridge can be proud of and will serve passengers very well for many years to come.”

Councillor John Pritchard, chairman of Whaley Bridge Town Council, said: “I thank Network Rail and their partners for the investment and hard work that has given Whaley Bridge a refurbished station of which the community can be proud. It provides a car-free entry portal for visitors to enjoy the town’s heritage: the canal basin, the conservation area and the memorial park.”

The chairman of Friends of Whaley Bridge Station said: “The Friends of Whaley Bridge Station are grateful for the work carried out at Whaley Bridge Station and welcome the opportunity to thank Network Rail for their input and efforts in restoring the historic building. Other enhancements are also much appreciated. The complete project helps to fulfil the aspiration of the Friends Group, Whaley Bridge Town Council and the community as a whole.”

The new facilities were officially opened last week by Councillor Pritchard and the occasion was marked with a plaque which has been installed in the station booking hall.