Northumberland Estates has submitted a planning application to undertake repairs and conservation work at Alnwick’s historic railway station.
An assessment of the building has identified a number of repairs are needed to the roof coverings, windows, and glass windscreens on the south elevation to make the building structurally sound and water-tight.
Alnwick Railway Station is thought to have been designed by North Eastern Railway architect William Bell. It opened in 1887 and by the turn of the century the railway was busy with about 60 trains a day using the station. As car ownership increased in the 1920s, passenger numbers began to decline. The station closed in 1968 and in 1975 the goods shed was carefully demolished and rebuilt at Beamish Museum in County Durham. The Station Master's house still stands as does the impressive 1887 train shed.
Northumberland Estates purchased the building, which is home to several businesses including one of Alnwick’s most popular attractions, Barter Books, in 2018. A fine example of Victorian railway architecture, the station is a principal feature of Alnwick and the estate, alongside architects Howarth Litchfield, have worked hard to ensure the proposed repair and design retains the station's historical significance and heritage features.
Emma Gledson, Senior Building Surveyor at Northumberland Estates, said: "Alnwick Railway Station is a wonderful asset and an integral part of the town's history. Our team is working closely with all occupiers to schedule repairs that will ensure its significance for years to come and improve the visitor experience."
