Leamington Spa station has started work on a £2m redevelopment in time to welcome thousands of visitors for the Commonwealth Games this summer. Lawn bowls and para lawn bowls will be played at the historic Royal Leamington Spa Bowls Club in Victoria Park with thousands expected to arrive to the town.
The aim of the redevelopment of the station entrance and pedestrian underpass aims to promote active and sustainable transport options. This would make it easier for train users to start and complete their journey on foot, cycle, bus or taxi.
Improvements being made include a pedestrian underpass with energy efficient lighting, enlarged public spaces and seating areas as well as the resurfacing and renewal of the station forecourt car park. A secure cycle hub and improved wayfinding signage at the station are two ongoing projects currently in progress.
Cllr Andrew Day, leader of Warwick District Council, said: “Our beautiful station is getting the investment it needs to become an integrated transport hub, making it easier for us all to get around, using public transport and other modes of active travel. What a wonderful Commonwealth Games legacy that will be, one that we’ll be building upon as we take forward wider plans for the regeneration of Royal Leamington Spa.”
Denise Wetton, director of Network Rail’s Central route, said: “We’re proud to help deliver these key improvements to Leamington Spa station as the town prepares to become a key venue for the Commonwealth Games later this summer. This significant investment in the station area will also improve passenger experience through Leamington Spa for many years to come.”
Works on redeveloping the station are being funded by Warwick District Council, Warwickshire County Council and the Government’s Local Growth Fund through Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership. The project is being delivered by Warwickshire County Council, Network Rail and Chiltern Railways.
Source: Robson McCallister
