Station Improvements Back on Track

26 June 2007

Unplanned repairs to secure loose stonework at Chester Station, are now finished following several months of hard work.

Last December, the installation of a new lighting scheme at Chester station was temporarily suspended after contractors discovered loose stonework on the west wing facade and the west tower of the building. Following the discovery, Chester City Council facilitated a programme of repairs with financial support from English Heritage and the private owner of the affected station area.

Repairs to the loose stone and balustrade are now finished and the station building is safe and secure. City Council Executive Member for Development, Councillor Mike Jones explained: "Public safety is a top priority and these repairs were essential. We are now looking forward to installing the architectural lighting, which will create a brighter environment, improve public safety after dark and highlight the architectural detail of the grade II* listed station building.

"Completion of the stonework repairs will allow road improvements around the station to start on time and once these works are finished, the architectural lighting scheme will recommence. This is an important project for Chester and the beginning of investment to restore the city's unique, heritage buildings as part of the Chester Renaissance."

The £10 million project to improve Chester Station and its surroundings is being delivered by the Gateway Partnership which includes Arriva Trains Wales, Cheshire County Council, Chester City Council, Merseyrail, Merseytravel, Network Rail, Northern Rail, North West Development Agency, Railway Heritage Trust, Virgin Trains and Visit Chester and Cheshire.

Back to the News Page