Northern improves passenger service through station developments

Copyright: Northern

As part of its Better Stations programme, Northern has made significant investment into the betterment of its stations by making over 1,000 improvements across the network. 

The programme, designed to modernise stations, has lead to more than 600 new ticket vending machines, 300 improved waiting shelters, and 260 new or improved seating areas.

Northern’s Managing Director, David Brown, said: “Two years ago, we committed to making significant improvements at our stations to give our customers a better journey experience – whether that’s buying a ticket, waiting for a train, or getting information about our services. With more than 1,000 improvements already completed, and many more yet to come, there is no doubt that we are delivering on that promise.” 

The invested money was also used to improve the security and operation of the stations, with Northern installing over 40 enhanced PA systems and 130 improved CCTV systems. 

The Better Stations scheme is a significant part of the railway operator’s more extensive plans to improve each aspect of its network, providing Northern passengers with better service and experience during their journeys across North England.

Brown continued: “Our Better Stations programme is a multi-million pound scheme that is benefiting our customers and the communities in which they live as we continue to make our stations more comfortable, more user-friendly and safer than ever.” 

Northern has recently introduced 33 new trains onto its network, with a further 68 planned to be delivered into 2020, as a result of a £500 million investment. The new additions, combined with the ongoing station improvements, means that passengers are already being provided with a better service. The older Pacer units are expected to be completely retired by the end of 2020.