This week saw the 185th Birthday of Reading railway station, with celebrations on Friday, 28th March.
Live music from the GWR Band and a railway-related image exhibition were supported by community members and the station team at the station, which first opened in 1840 as part of Brunel’s Great Western Railway.
Ten years ago, a redevelopment project at the station saw a new track layout installed and a new viaduct built to replace a junction.
These changes helped reduce congestion following an increase in passenger and freight services.
Elizabeth line services began in 2022, and Reading also saw the introduction of electric trains with Great Western Railway in 2018.
More trains serve the station than ever before, resulting in a 10.4% increase in retail sales.
Performance data recently went live at many railway stations across the UK and Reading station was chosen by the Department for Transport for the launch.
A new plaque was unveiled at the station, as part of Railway 200 celebrations, to mark the occasion.
“In celebrating Reading station’s 185th birthday, we’re proud to recognise its important role in connecting people across the country for generations.
“With the introduction of Elizabeth line services three years ago, more trains than ever before are stopping at Reading, helping to promote growth for local businesses and highlighting the station’s importance as a commuter and transport hub.
“With such a rich railway history, we’re proud to mark 185 years of Reading station, and look forward to seeing what the future brings as we continue to work with our partners to improve train performance and passenger experience.”
Marcus Jones, Network Rail‘s Western route director
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