Barton-on-Humber line gets boost from EMR

East Midlands Railway (EMR) has said it is spending over £400,000 to deliver improvements to stations on the Barton-on-Humber line.

In an effort to improve the overall customer experience, stations will get upgrades such as passenger electronic help points (which allow customers to contact EMR’s customer service centre for information or the emergency services), as well as new benches, grit bins, signs and passenger information facilities.

Other improvements include metal fencing being repainted, timber fences being stained, while other structures, such as brick shelters and columns, will also be painted – helping to improve the appearance of the stations for customers up and down the route.

Specifically, at Thornton Abbey and New Clee, replacement fencing will also be put in place.

Work should be finished, EMR says, in late spring.

Lisa Angus, transition and projects director at East Midlands Railway, said: “We understand how important these stations are to the rural communities they serve, and we hope these improvements will help to enhance the experience for customers who use the line for commuting, to visit loved ones or enjoy the lines scenic tourist locations like Thornton Abbey.

“The improvements are a real boost to the line and will provide better signage, seating and information at every station on the route.”

Gill Simpson, community rail officer at Barton Cleethorpes Community Rail Partnership, said: “Station improvements are always a high priority for the BCCRP and every year, our members campaign for large scale improvements and fund smaller projects, so this news from East Midlands Railway is most welcome.

“With the high growth of employment opportunities in North and North East Lincolnshire, this is just another excellent reason for people to come to live and work here and enjoy all the things this area of the country has to offer. The improvements also enhance the station experience for existing residents and casual visitors.”

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