The renovation and restoration of Ellesmere Port’s Grade II listed railway station will preserve and enhance the building’s architectural and historic character and appearance, borough planners believe.
The listed building application from Network Rail covers the renovation and restoration of the inside of the station on Whitby Road, including refitting rooms with external renovations. The plans include access ramps on the platform side.
Conservation officers had no objections but felt they would have liked to see more traditional timber panelling.
It was agreed the council would expect Victorian railway timber panelling to be used.
The application was recommended for approval subject to conditions and the borough council agreed listed building consent could be issued.
More recently, planning permission has been lodged for the proposed changes at the station to include retail and community space.
The work follows a £222,000 grant and includes a cafe on the ground floor with rooms on the first floor possibly being used as office space for the community.
Heating will also be installed in waiting areas.
Merseyrail, Merseytravel and Cheshire West and Chester Council teamed up to seek the grant from Network Rail and secured the cash to upgrade facilities at the station.
