What's Going on at Eynsford Station

The Darent Valley Community Rail Partnership is becoming a reality.

With plans to improve the environments of all the stations of the Darent Valley Line from Sevenoaks to Swanley, some of the projects are getting underway.

At Eynsford, we have installed a new toilet in the old waiting room and quotes are being obtained to redecorate the rest of the waiting room.

The shelter on the London bound platform is currently being restored, using as much of the original materials as possible.

We have obtained funding to finance a feasibility study into installing a ramp to the London bound platform form the current recycling area and creating car parking space in this area, safer street crossing and bus stops. We also are funding legal searches into the ownership of the areas of land involved. This scheme is designed to allow disabled and pushchair access to the platform.

In the longer term, we have applied for funding to restore the exterior of the building to it’s former, Victorian glory from the Rail Heritage Fund.

The Community Rail Network is funded by the Dept of Transport and promotes local groups and partnerships to improve the rail travel experience. You can find out more at www.communityrail.org.uk.

Our group is chaired by Linda Larter, who is Sevenoaks Town Council’s Chief Executive and lead the scheme to improve a once derelict Bat and Ball Station. If you are passing, pop in to see what can be done to restore these historic buildings and give them a new life.

Sarah Newman is our Rail Officer. Based at Sevenoaks District Council offices, she is responsible for making things happen and co-ordinating the activities of our strategic partners such as Go Coach, Darent Valley Landscape Partnership, the rail companies, Station Masters, rail user groups and the many businesses that benefit from better transport links.

Looking beyond Eynsford, you are probably be aware of the major schemes already started to upgrade Swanley and Sevenoaks Stations.

Shoreham Station is also looking at a renovation scheme to turn the waiting room into a local museum and information centre, with an off-road footpath link to the Darent Valley Path and ramp access to the London bound platform.

New station signage, wayfaring signs, large planters and ongoing funding for plants, information points and posters are planned for all stations to make them more user friendly and a better experience. These improvements will encourage people to use the trains and buses rather than a car.

Keep up to date with our plans and news on our website http://darentvalleycrp.org