News

ECO STATIONS REPORT LAUNCHED

23rd February 2007

Northern Rail and Lancashire County Council have unveiled radical new approaches to the design and operation of small stations at a conference in Preston. The joint report outlines ways in which stations can be run more efficiently and become hubs of sustainable development in their communities.
 
The report, by consultants Transport Regeneration Ltd, used case studies of several stations in Lancashire – Accrington, Burnley Central, Burnley Manchester Road, Rose Grove and Squires Gate (Blackpool).
 
The report gave examples of buildings, which have been constructed from sustainable materials and function through solar power or wind turbines. Liverpool South Parkway station incorporates many features of outstanding sustainable design. Some rural stations on Northern Rail’s network are already being fitted with solar panels and wind turbines to provide heating and lighting.
 
Tom Harris Rail Minister said: "We want to encourage more people to use our railway and better, more attractive stations are a part of that. Developing sustainable designs which create more environmentally friendly stations will give rail the chance to play its part in being green."
 
Heidi Mottram, Managing Director, Northern Rail said: ‘This report is the beginning of a new way of looking at small and medium-sized stations.  They could become centres of community life, incorporating the very best of environmental innovation. It isn’t just about design or even operation; it’s also what the station actually does. There is real potential to promote stations as the green hub of towns and villages providing services such as selling local organic produce or hiring out bikes and eco- friendly cars.’
 Richard Watts, Rail Projects Manager of Lancashire County Council, hopes to see the report’s recommendations put into practice. ‘There are a number of stations in Lancashire which need significant improvements,’ said Richard. ‘The report suggests ways in which we can pull in additional funding for projects which show innovation in environmental design. We’re keen to go forward with at least two pilot schemes.’