Facelift for stations by Paul Peterson,
Basildon Yellow Advertiser, 21st July 2005

QUOTE

Railway stations in Essex have been given a facelift to the tune of £5.6m.

The improvements at 18 stations including Goodmayes, Hockley, Ingatestone and Laindon bring more CCTV, customer information screens, better waiting rooms and shelters.

Passengers will also find modern baby changing facilities and toilets with disabled access.

The work forms part of the Modern Stations Facilities project, funded by the Strategic Rail Authority and carried out by Network Rail.

A total of £5.612m has been invested into 38 stations in the east of England.

Jon Wiseman, Network Rail route director, said the project has been delivered on time and under budget.

He added: "This is evidence of the rail industry's commitment to improving the journey experience for passengers. Comfortable stations with modern facilities are an important pert of our programme to re-build Britain's railway."

The improvement scheme has been developed to enhance stations with high passenger numbers and limited facilities, Essex received the most funding in the region.

David Quarmby, chairman of the SRA, said: "This is an excellent example of the industry working together to produce real benefits for passengers.

"We would like to thank passengers for their patience during the improvement works and the industry for its commitment and support."

The new facilities will be enjoyed mainly by passengers using train services on lines in and out of London Liverpool Street.

A spokesman for train company ONE said the improvements would create a more secure, comfortable and welcoming environment for customers on their daily commute.

UNQUOTE