Canopy contractors back on site

Five figure 'Biffaward' grant unlocks next phase of work

A generous grant from environmental trust Biffaward means work to restore the elegant glass, metal and timber canopy at Loughborough Central station can take another leap forward.

The half a million pound project has already seen two large sections of the grade two listed structure repaired. Now a grant of thirty three thousand pounds from Biffaward means a third phase of works can be carried out. Contractors will be on site within two weeks, working on the street level entrance canopy on Great Central Road. The work will last until just before Christmas.

Project leader Tony Sparks said, "We're very grateful for the support of Biffaward. The street level entrance to the station is a local landmark. The elegant grade two listed canopy has appeared in many films and is a popular meeting place. The grant will be used to restore it to its original appearance when it was built in 1899. Thanks to Biffaward it will continue to serve the community for decades to come"

Biffaward have previously supported the railway with a grant to construct a station canopy at the other end of the railway - Leicester North station.

Gillian French, Programme Manager for Biffaward, said "Biffaward is delighted to support such a worthwhile project. The restoration of the canopy at Loughborough Central station is a valuable focal point for the community, providing them with strong links to their culture and heritage."

The station canopy is known as Loughborough's Crystal Palace. Supporters of the railway have been raising tens of thousands of pounds to restore it. With work complete on two end sections and now due to start at street level, plans are being made to repair an entire platform face. With the appeal continuing to generate gratefully received donations, this phase is expected to begin before Christmas.

For more details of the Raising The Roof appeal see the GCR website www.gcrailway.co.uk