Trees planted to spruce up Hull Paragon station

Train operator TransPennine Express (TPE) has planted almost a dozen evergreen trees to spruce up one of its busiest stations.  

A total of 10 ‘Red Robin’ trees have been installed in planters along the concourse to welcome customers to the station. 

Ben Courtney, Station Manager at TransPennine Express, said: “The trees have really made a difference to the feel of the concourse and is just one of the many improvements we are making for our customers.  

“We are continuing to invest in Hull Paragon Station as part of our blueprint to make journeys better.” 

The £18,300 investment is one the latest in a series of schemes to revamp the historic station.  

Last year a mural painted by a local artist transformed the Ferensway entrance. TPE commissioned Hull-based artist, Andy Pea, who, in collaboration with students of Ron Dearing UTC created a vibrant public art piece chronicling Hull’s history. 

The station benches have also been replaced and there are plans to transform the toilets.  

Andy Burton, Assistant Director for Streetscene Services at Hull City Council, said: “For those travelling by rail, bus or coach, Hull Paragon Station is often the first location they will experience in the city, so it is hugely important to make the right impression and to take advantage of the opportunity to celebrate our history and to tell our story to the world.

“The new trees on the concourse are the latest in a number of investments and enhancements by TransPennine Express designed to improve the experience for passengers and is a commitment that is welcomed by Hull City Council.”

TPE also marked the 175th anniversary of the station by naming one of its class 185 trains ‘Hull Paragon 175’ in honour of the station. The train will now carry the historic stations name and serve thousands of people as it travels across Yorkshire and the wider TPE network. 

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