Building work begins for new station

Andrew Selous visited the site of the Leighton Buzzard Railway’s new Page’s Park station on Saturday (February 20) to formally inaugurate the building work by laying the first facing brick on the recently completed foundations.

An enthusiastic supporter of the railway, which famously played host to actor John Travolta and his son in 2013, Mr Selous met with volunteers to understand more about the new station – the Museum Gateway Project – and to better appreciate the remaining challenges for it to be delivered.

The project was given the green light late last year after a total of £300,000 had been raised to complete the building, which includes rooms which will be available for local community use.

A further £80,000 is now required by June to complete all the fitting out and external details.

Speaking to railway volunteers at the site, the MP was keen to lend his support to the project and to the continuing fundraising efforts.

He said: “The railway is both an important part of Leighton Buzzard’s heritage and a valuable visitor attraction.

“It is vital that this project succeeds and I hope local people and industry will give it the support it needs.

“The new station will transform the railway for visitors, bring business to the town and provide a valuable amenity for the local community.”

Railway vice president Tony Tomkins added: “We would be delighted to hear from local businesses who might be able to help get us across the line.”