News

NORTHERN RAIL LAUNCHES COMMUNITY STRATEGY

19th April 2007

Northern Rail, the UK’s largest train operator launched its Community Strategy at a packed meeting in the picturesque town of Slaithwaite, West Yorkshire.

The Strategy brings together a wealth of initiatives, which Northern Rail is championing across the North of England. These include: sponsoring community rail partnerships; working with schools and youth organisations; encouraging local groups to ‘adopt’ their station, supporting local charities, supporting station gala events; bringing back the great tradition of station gardens and more contemporary approaches including stunning works of art.

Jo North, Commercial Director, Northern Rail said: “We are very proud to launch this Strategy, which demonstrates vividly that Northern Rail is at the forefront of community engagement in the UK rail industry.”

The Community Strategy reflects the people-focussed and partnership principles that lay at the core of the parent organisation, Serco-NedRailways, and which are integral to Northern Rail's every day working.

Railways Minister, Tom Harris MP commented: “I'm particularly pleased that local communities are getting such a big say in how their rail services develop. This is a key part of the Government's strategy to make local rail more flexible and responsive to people's needs."

Richard Watts, Rail Services Manager, Lancashire County Council commented: “This is a landmark document that places Community Rail at the heart of the future of many of Northern Rail’s local rail services...the key to its strength is partnership working - a partnership embracing the railway industry, local government, local businesses, users and local communities. Exciting times indeed – well done Northern Rail you are showing the way for other train companies to follow.”