Community Rail Network is excited to announce that it is continuing its corporate charity partnership with SLC Rail and SLC Property for another year.

The partnership enables Community Rail Network members to access SCL’s in-house rail and property expertise, in order to further support members to successfully deliver community-led initiatives bringing disused station buildings into community use and turning stations into community hubs.

This includes helping them to engage with station masterplans, develop how the station interfaces with the local community, and negotiate property lease arrangements, asset ownership, regulatory consents processes and more.

Sam Uren, director of SLC Rail, said: “We have always believed that railway stations should be a vital part of the community they serve, and this is even more important with the current challenges within the industry. That’s why we’re delighted to continue to support Community Rail Network’s valuable work for another year.

“Over the last year, we’ve enjoyed sharing our experience with members and we look forward to working with more members this year to continue to make a positive difference.”

Julie Throssell, director of SLC Property, said: “We’ve been supporting members with help in delivering community rail projects throughout the UK, including at Herne Hill Station. This involved using our property and planning expertise to look at how we can make the community space above the ticket office more accessible.”

Sarah Chilton, director of communications and policy at Community Rail Network, said: “Community rail partnerships and station groups work at a grassroots level, leading on innovative projects that bring people together, widen access to rail and put stations at the heart of community life.

“Station building projects are an essential part of the work our members do to empower communities and connect people with the railway. I strongly encourage members to make the most of this valuable offer and draw on SLC’s extensive expertise to help further develop your stations as thriving community hubs.”

Community Rail Network members can find out more about SLC’s offer via this informational video.

If you would like to request support, please speak with your regional Community Rail Network support contact to discuss your plans and next steps.

For more information about SLC Rail visit www.slcrail.com and for more information about SLC Property, please visit www.slcproperty.co.uk.

Find out more about Community Rail Network’s partners and supporters, and the ways in which they support our members, here.