Grand Central has announced that they have signed a new lease with Blackpool Council for a new train crew hub.
Work has started on the 2,500sq ft hub at No. 1 Bickerstaffe Square. The train crew hub will be used to house Grand Central's train crew for its new Blackpool North to London Euston route.
Located next to Blackpool North railway station, the hub will house 50 Grand Central staff.
The hub has been leased until 2026 and will be the base for train drivers, conductors, assistants and managers.
Several car parking spaces have also been leased from the Talbot Road car park.
What did the officials say?
Garry Clark, depot manager for Grand Central, said:
“Bickerstaffe Square is a fantastic space and it's really exciting to see our staff facilities taking shape. We can't wait to move into our new home and it's brilliant to know that we are playing a part in regenerating the area around the railway station and Talbot Road.
“We have a track record of supporting local communities in and around our network and we believe the launch of our new route from the North West to London Euston in 2020 will prove to be a major boost to the local economy.”
Cllr Mark Smith, Blackpool Council's Cabinet Member for Business, Enterprise and Job Creation, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Grand Central Rail to Bickerstaffe and wish the team every success in their new hub.
“The Talbot Gateway project represents a wonderful opportunity for businesses to develop and thrive in Blackpool town centre. The new unit, along with Grand Central's upcoming route from Blackpool North to London Euston, will provide a great boost to the local infrastructure.”
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Grand Central could also inherit some Class 90s from Greater Anglia along with Mk4 coaches from LNER. To boost more capacity on their new London Euston-Blackpool North direct service.