Reprieve for Trimley Train Station

Following a meeting with Network Rail on Tuesday 15th December between myself  (Robert Scrimgeour Suffolk Coastal), Bryan Frost (Chairman, Trimley St Mary Parish Council) and Ian Dungavell (Director, The Victorian Society), a decision about the demolition of Trimley station building has been deferred until the beginning of April 2010.

The Flyer Group Business Plan:

At the meeting it was highlighted about the establishment of a Friends Group; the numerous letters of support sent by local people, local and national heritage groups. A draft business plan that had been prepared by Adrian Bradshaw of The Flyer Group, based in Felixstowe was tabled.

The business plan demonstrates the viability of a mixed-use proposal consisting of small-scale business start-up units; a community room; and a café.

On these bases Network Rail has expressed a willingness to enter into direct discussions about the business plan and a suitable vehicle for securing funding for the capital costs and project management of the building refurbishment, with the proviso that, without progress, they will revisit the decision to demolish at the beginning of April.

The outcome of the meeting was positive and, speaking for myself, a huge relief following all of our hard work. My thanks for their support go particularly to Adrian Bradshaw, John Goodwin, Charles Taylor and Barry Henson who have been instrumental in providing direct practical ideas, suggestions and advice; and to Bryan, of course, for his unflagging persistence.

Would any local business, community group or residents interested in using the site upon completion of restoration please contact Adrian Bradshaw c/o The Felixstowe Flyer, PO Box 80, Felixstowe IP11 7AA or email flyergroup@hotmail.com. It is proposed in the plan that at least four small office units will be available to rent, storage areas will also be available and a community space for local clubs and societies to use.

Supplied by Robert Scrimgeour