Iconic UK seaside town gets major £14m train station boost
The project is hoped to enhance the visitor experience of the town.
An iconic seaside town is set for a major boost as its train station is being given a £14 million revamp. The work, which will be completed by the end of March, includes installing a new roof, restoring stonework and carrying out preservation of the Grade II-listed station.
Scarborough, the UK's first official seaside resort, is known for its sandy beaches, rich heritage and family-friendly attractions. Work to renovate the town's station, which was built in 1845, is now in its final stage and it's hoped the improvements will transform the experience for visitors to the area.
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As reported by Time Out, the clocktower is currently being restored thanks to a grant from the Railway Heritage Trust worth £203,000 while the waiting room and ticket office are also being refurbished. Network Rail dubbed the clocktower the station's "crowning glory".
Ann Shannon, scheme project manager for Network Rail, said: "Thanks to additional funding from the Railway Heritage Trust, we’ve been able to repair all four clock faces, fully refurbish the tower and finials, and upgrade the uplighting.
"The finish line is now in sight, and visitors will see a real difference both inside and outside the station, with the beautifully restored clocktower providing the crowning glory."
Scarborough Train Station has remained open throughout the project, with trains from the station generally calling at Sheffield and York. The work is expected to be completed by Tuesday, March 31.
North Yorkshire Council set out plans to introduce new outdoor seating areas and resurfaced footpaths at the station back in December. The plans also included trees, enhanced accessible parking, and improved pedestrian access.
Scarborough was made Britain's first seaside resort in the 17th century. It has since been a popular area among holidaymakers, leading the opening of the train station in 1845.
The town has two beaches, North Bay Beach and South Bay Beach, and attracts around 23 million visitors every year. As well as the beaches, tourists can enjoy a host of seafront attractions such as the North Bay Railway, Scarborough Open Air Theatre and Scarborough Sea Life Centre.
