Improvements for Macclesfield Railway Station

Following news that railway station ticket offices will not close, Macclesfield MP, David Rutley, met up with senior members of Avanti West Coast to discuss our station’s future. 

David met with Interim Stations Director Claire Kingswood and Regional Growth Manager Mark Osborne to review priorities  over the coming months.

Ms Kingswood set out Avanti West Coast’s aspiration to improve facilities and the customer experience. She revealed details of long term improvements planned for its Macclesfield customers. Recent investment has already seen station improvements including new  seating. 

Mr Osborne confirmed Avanti West Coast’s future investment will link in with future regeneration initiatives in Macclesfield, helping to better connect people with the town centre. Working to enhance the approach to Macclesfield station is a priority ensuring it becomes a fitting gateway that both residents and visitors can be proud of.

Part of this approach includes the Macclesfield Art Trail, delivered by Cheshire East Council and Macclesfield Town Council, which celebrates the history of Macclesfield through pieces of art, supported through the Avanti West Coast’s community fund.  

David also heard about the progress being made on the refurbishment of Avanti West Coast trains serving Macclesfield, using onboard recycling and sustainable materials wherever possible, including tables made from recycled plastic bottles. 

Speaking after the meeting, David said “As a regular user of Macclesfield Station and having actively campaigned to keep local ticket offices open, I warmly welcomed the recent announcement that the ticket offices will remain open and continue to provide much appreciated assistance to customers. Going forward it will be vital to link improvements at Macclesfield railway station to initiatives that also regenerate the town centre. I will continue to work closely with Avanti West Coast on next steps to help drive forward future plans.”