Bright future ahead for Rugby train station says MP

Mark Pawsey, MP for Rugby (far right) with Helen , Station Manager at Rugby Station (centre right), Phil Cavender, General Manager for the Rugby route (centre left) and Richard Stanton, Head of Communications at Virgin Trains (far left)

Whilst there, Mark Pawsey was shown the new features, including the Welcome Hosts who man the new ticket barriers which have been introduced at the station. Mr Pawsey also discussed with Virgin the new locations of the ticket machines at the underpass entrance.

During the meeting, Mr Pawsey raised the future of Rugby station, including the plans to ensure parking at the station is able to keep pace with the growing demand. He also highlighted the traffic and congestion concerns that residents have brought to his attention, particularly on Technology Drive and at the Mill Road tunnel.

Mr Pawsey said: “One of Rugby’s great strengths is its transport links. Rugby station has seen passenger growth ahead of the national average during the last Parliament and I hope that we can continue to build on this success in the future. I have also spoken with Rugby Rail Users Group regarding these matters. I know that good access to the rail network is very important for commuters and I was very encouraged by the discussions I have had with Virgin.”

Virgin Trains’ General Manager, Phil Cavender, said: “We’ve been proud to serve Rugby for what is fast approaching twenty years. The station is unrecognisable from the one we took over back in 1997. So it was a great opportunity to reflect with Mark not only the progress that has been made but also the exciting plans we have to help address the challenges of the future. It is clear Mark shares our passion to improve rail facilities for those travelling to and from the station and we got some great feedback during the meeting.”