Big plans for BatleyStation

A new era for Batley Railway Station would run parallel to the regeneration of commerce in the town according to a new action group.
NEXT STOP Julie Smith, John Appleyard, Amanda Stubley, Jo Cox, Ken Lowe and Gwen Lowe. (d532j441)NEXT STOP Julie Smith, John Appleyard, Amanda Stubley, Jo Cox, Ken Lowe and Gwen Lowe. (d532j441)
NEXT STOP Julie Smith, John Appleyard, Amanda Stubley, Jo Cox, Ken Lowe and Gwen Lowe. (d532j441)

A group of local politicians and residents said they would work with the council and the community, and put pressure on Northern Rail, to make the station more presentable.

Coun Gwen Lowe (Lab, Batley West), who is leading the charge, said: “I came to pick up a VIP speaker from the station and I felt personally embarrassed when they mentioned its state.

“You wouldn’t feel safe walking through the underpass.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“We are going to ask for a meeting with Northern Rail on the site.

“There are already plants growing in the roof that could cause damage and it could get to the point that we could be told to demolish the building, so we are saying it is better to act now.”

Coun Lowe said improving the station would be a key part of making the Batley more appealling to businesses, residents and commuters.

The group said it may look to local schools and creative groups for inspiration for new designs on the platform walls.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Pete Myers, client and stakeholder manager for Northern Rail said: “We would be delighted to work with our partners at Kirklees Council to improve the station environment at Batley. It’s a busy urban station and we would be happy to help make it better for our customers.”

Related topics: