And finally… standing at the station
There’s only one thing we love more than cool new transport infrastructure… and that’s cool old transport infrastructure.
Pleasingly then, the restoration of Hull’s Stepney station has been shortlisted in the National Railway Heritage Awards, the only recognition dedicated to encouraging best practices in the re-use, restoration, and upkeep of railway and tramway heritage across the UK.
Located on Beverley Road, Stepney station has played a major part in Hull’s transport and social history, although it has been unused by trains since the 1960s. And now, operated by the Summit Education Society, the station has transformed into an essential venue for the local community.
The listed station’s restoration was made possible through funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and was led by Hull City Council.
As well as essential repairs, the station house was returned to its traditional brown and buff paint colour scheme, offering a throwback to the 1850s, when it was operated by the North Eastern Railway company.
Cllr Paul Drake-Davis, portfolio holder for regeneration at Hull CC, expressed his enthusiasm: “The restoration of Stepney Station was very much needed, and it has become a key venue and sanctuary for the local community.”
Zeki Tasdemir from the Summit Education Society said the group is “deeply honoured” to be shortlisted, adding that “the restoration project is aimed at protecting the heritage building while breathing new life into the space to provide a safe and reliable place for our community”.
The winners of the National Railway Heritage Awards will be announced during a ceremony at Merchant Taylors’ Hall, London EC2, on Wednesday 4 December 2024. Go and get it, Team Stepney!
