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Friday 21 Nov 2003

NEW LOOK STOCKPORT STATION TO BE OFFICIALLY RE-OPENED

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A ceremony involving Network Rail, Virgin Trains, GMPTE and Stockport Council took place today (21 November) to highlight the official opening of Stockport station.  Stockport MP, Ann Coffey unveiled a plaque on the new concourse following a number of guest speakers, including the Mayor of Stockport. £3.5m was spent on the project and now the station has a bright new two-tier concourse entrance on Station Road.  There has also been major refurbishment of the station underpass making the walk through the station much more pleasant and inviting for rail users. The new concourse building is modern and light with much of the outside walls made of glass.  As you walk through the entrance there is a clear view of the open plan booking area leading to the subway, which now links all platforms and provides a more inviting entrance on the other side of the station. On the approach road, outside the upper tier of the concourse, a taxi lane and disabled parking places have been installed for user-friendly access.  A lift built to serve the new platform from the main entrance also gives easy access to the new ticket office from the disabled parking area. - more - Stockport – 2 A new platform has been built, which is safe and user-friendly for the blind or those with visual difficulties, is under cover and also holds an indoor seating area.  When the platform comes into use it will provide a fresh, comfortable environment for passengers. John Pengelly, Network Rail property manager said:  “Network Rail, Virgin Trains, GMPTE and Stockport Council have each contributed to ensure the quality of the station is now as it should be.  It’s great to see that the project is finally complete and I look forward to the plaque unveiling as the finishing touch.” Stockport MP, Ann Coffey commented:  “I am very pleased to open the new improved Stockport station.  The new booking hall is particularly attractive and improved access to the car parks will be welcomed by station users.  It now looks like a station fit for 21st century rail users.” Councillor Maureen Rowles, Deputy Chair of Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority’s Policy Committee and Stockport spokesperson for the Authority, said: “As an Authority we are committed to encouraging people to travel by public transport. We know that this will only happen if the whole journey is made easy and comfortable for travellers. This includes providing excellent waiting facilities and accurate information about services and ticketing options. The works that have now been completed make a major contribution to improving the experience of passengers using the station and we look forward to our partners, Network Rail and Virgin Trains, bringing forward proposals for the enhancement of the remainder of the station.” Cllr. Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council, added:  “The completion of Stockport station will be welcomed by all local residents.  The station plays a vital role in the regeneration of the borough, linking us to major UK cities and encouraging a shift to more sustainable travel.”