Cosford railway station reopens after six-month refit

Trains called at Cosford railway station today for the first time in more than six months after major work on a new platform was finally completed.

Work on the station began in October to replace the old station and platform, which were made almost entirely of wood. Network Rail, which was carrying out the work, had been due to hand over the station seven weeks ago.

However, work on the 75-year-old station has now been completed to the satisfaction of train operator London Midland, with new platforms, waiting facilities and electronic information boards.

Mike Dalton, London Midland spokesman, said: "The station opened as scheduled this morning. We're delighted that it's back in operation and we're able to serve our passengers again.

"We're hoping we will get good feedback on the new station but it's a bit soon to have received any comments yet.

"One of our service managers went down to the station this morning and there are passengers using the service today, and that's a good sign."

Keith Lumley, for Network Rail, said he was pleased that the station had now been handed over to London Midland.

"My apologies that the opening was delayed for about five weeks," he added.

The station is expected to be used by thousands of passengers during the next few months as they make their way to the Cosford air show in June, and to the RAF museum.

The station now has new non-slip platforms made from glass reinforced polymer. Each platform also has waiting shelters, lights, information screens and a station announcement system. While the station was closed a replacement bus service was running between Cosford and nearby Albrighton.