Arriva Trains Wales | KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY AT WHITCHURCH RAILWAY STATION

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY AT WHITCHURCH RAILWAY STATION

Whitchurch railway station in north Cardiff has become the 155th station to be adopted as part of Arriva Trains Wales’ adopt a station scheme.

Whitchurch Station Adoption Dr Andrew Glanfield and his three old son Jonathan, have adopted the station after reading about the scheme in the South Wales Echo. The groundbreaking scheme involves communities in caring for and taking pride in their local railway station.

Launched in April 2004 to strengthen community involvement across the rail network, the scheme has proven very successful with individuals and groups volunteering to help the train company keep an eye on its 189 unstaffed stations.

The ‘Adopt a Station’ scheme allows local communities to ‘have a say’ about their station’s facilities and condition to ensure it meets the high standards expected by rail users.

Volunteers, referred to as 'station adopters’, are asked to carry out regular spot checks relating to the tidiness and cleanliness of the station. They then report any issues that may need addressing so that they can be dealt with promptly. Station cleaning and maintenance is undertaken by Arriva Trains Wales.

In return for their effort station adopters receive up to complimentary travel vouchers to use on any part of the National Rail Network.

Jez Williams, station manager for Arriva Trains Wales, said: “The scheme is all about encouraging involvement with local people. Stations are important community facilities and it’s encouraging to see people coming forward to help us keep an eye on them.”

He continued: “At some adopted stations, adopters have gone a step further by enhancing their appearance with flower displays, painting and the removal of overgrown vegetation. Murals created by local school children can also be seen at some stations.”

Dr Glanfield, said: “Having recently moved to the area, we often use the station to go to town and Jonathan is particularly interested in trains. It’s quite a small station but has some potential for a bit of tender loving care. My wife is a keen gardener therefore we hope to create an area for flowers and shrubs in the coming months.”

The initiative is backed by the British Transport Police who are responsible for policing the rail network.

Sergeant Mark Jones said: “The ‘Adopt a Station’ scheme has the full support of the British Transport Police. Engaging with the community is an important part of our work. The scheme allows us to speak directly with local people, which helps ensure that any issues that may arise can be effectively responded to.”