East Midlands Railway (EMR) are to invest over £400k upgrading and improving 12 stations on the Barton-on-Humber line.

The project aims to enhance customer experience by providing improved station environments and travel experiences. The improvements include the installation of passenger electronic help points – which let customers make contact with EMR’s customer service centre to receive information or to contact emergency services for assistance if needed.

The 12 stations are also set to benefit from benches and signage and will also see platform information replaced and refreshed, alongside the installation of new grit bins.

Further work will also see metal fencing repainted and wooden fences stained with other structures such as brick shelters and columns will also be painted and will bring an improved appearance for the stations and for customers to enjoy up and down the route.

Thornton Abbey and New Clee stations will also see replacement fencing put in place.

East Midlands Railway expects the project to be completed by late Spring 2022.

Lisa Angus, Transition and Projects Director at East Midlands Railway, said:

“We understand how important these stations are to the rural communities they serve and we hope these improvements will help to enhance the experience for customers who use the line for commuting, to visit loved ones or enjoy the lines scenic tourist locations like Thornton Abbey.”

“The improvements are real boost to the line and will provide better signage, seating and information at every station on the route.”

Gill Simpson, Community Rail Officer at Barton Cleethorpes Community Rail Partnership, said:

“Station improvements are always a high priority for the BCCRP and every year our members campaign for large scale improvements and fund smaller projects, so this news from East Midlands Railway is most welcome.”

“With the high growth of employment opportunities in North and North East Lincolnshire, this is just another excellent reason for people to come to live and work here, and enjoy all the things this area of the country has to offer. The improvements also enhance the station experience for existing residents and casual visitors.”