Pre-train journey picnicking and plant perusing is expected at historic Carlisle Citadel station after home furnishing company Homebase revamped the Victorian landmark.
The Gothic style station was identified by Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson as in particular need of some TLC and has this week received a makeover that includes the waiting room becoming a lounge, creating a garden on a platform and installing a kitchen.
Passengers will be able to loll on garden furniture as they await their train and admire the floral displays.
The Homebase/Virgin tie up effectively allows the retailer some great PR and calls attention to Branson’s call for train operators to get more freedom to invest in station. Branson would also like to smarten up Preston and Crewe.
Station manager at Carlisle for Virgin Trains Ann Turner said: “We’re very proud of our station, which looks amazing. The station is full of history and we love it. What has happened has really transformed it and shows what can be done.”
She added: “Response from the local community has been great. We’ve noticed passengers arriving a little bit earlier to allow extra time to enjoy the station and take it all in.”
By Dinah Hatch
