Multimillion-pound railway station renovation begins

Work has started on a plan to renovate Leicester’s historic railway station and restore its hidden Victorian features.

The multimillion-pound initiative aims to refurbish the landmark station building, improve passenger facilities, and establish a more accessible and appealing entry point into the city.

Contractors have been appointed to oversee the demolition of 48 London Road, located adjacent to the railway station.

AR Demolition have begun demolition works on 48 London Road, next to the station.

Internal preparations and surveys will precede the careful dismantling of the structure, slated to begin in late spring.

The removal of the property will create space for relocating the railway station’s main entrance to Station Street, thereby creating a new public space that connects directly to the Granby Street supercrossing and the city centre.

This will reveal and restore the original Victorian façade of the Grade II-listed station building to its former glory on Station Street.

City Mayor Peter Soulsby said: “Leicester’s railway station is a landmark historic building but, as an important transport hub, it needs a radical overhaul to meet the needs of a modern city the size of Leicester. We have been working closely with our rail industry partners to develop and progress these ambitious plans which will see the station revamped and revitalised. It is a major and complex project that will make a huge difference to the city and it’s encouraging to see that work is now underway.

“The award of almost £18 million of extra investment from the Government through the Levelling Up Fund is a tremendous endorsement of the importance of this project. It will help transform the area into a vibrant gateway and make a vital contribution to Leicester’s future growth and prosperity.”

Train services to and from Leicester will operate as usual despite the ongoing demolition activities.

The redevelopment of the railway station is spearheaded by Leicester City Council in collaboration with East Midlands Railway (EMR) and Network Rail. The project receives funding support of £17.6m from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, which aims to enhance infrastructure nationwide for improved community living.

Gavin Crook, principal programme sponsor for Network Rail’s East Midlands route, said: “This exciting project will transform Leicester station entrance, bringing better facilities and creating a fitting gateway to the city. We’ll continue to work closely with Leicester City Council and East Midlands Railway to deliver these ambitious, major improvements for passengers.”

Demolition work is expected to be complete by summer 2024. Construction works will follow shortly after.