Volunteers’ effort to enhance Spalding Railway Station is first class

Spalding Railway Station is looking much more attractive thanks to the sterling work of volunteers.

Plants and flowers have gone into a new bed on platform two – created by seven tonnes of soil being moved by hand over the bridge.

The work is part of Peterborough and Spalding Transport Forum’s adoption of the station, a basic partnership with East Midlands Trains which rents the station from Network Rail.
The many volunteers and supporters helping have included Bakkavor, Butters, Bourne Skip Hire, district and county councillors, Tulip Radio and Spotless Spalding.

Coun Jack McLean, who started the social group Spotless Spalding, said: “Network Rail have now begun clearing the unsightly overgrowth behind the rear fence that is the backdrop of our hard work. In addition we would like to see it opened up to allow access through to Park Road.

“We are aiming to have Community Payback on site next year to work with us on the bigger jobs.

“Long term we hope to do something about the deteriorating state of the bridge on the land opposite the station. In addition we are looking at management options for the community and volunteers to help maintain the area.”

He added: “The scale of achievements by comparison to any work I have done with organisations such as Network Rail is remarkable.
“It goes to show what this community driven approach can achieve in such a short space of time.”

Meanwhile, the transport forum responded to concerns over disability access at the station by gaining a commitment to have a lift installed within 18 months.
Ten new committee members have joined since the station project began.