Reprieve for iconic station
Historic England has awarded a grant of £263,000 towards the repair of Wingfield Station, built in 1839-40, which is among the first purpose-built passenger railway stations in the world.
It had been in private hands and at risk for many years. In 2015 it was afforded Grade II* listed status, in recognition of its national significance; only 8% of all listed buildings are designated Grade II* or Grade I.
Since 2015, Historic England has assisted Amber Valley Borough Council in discussions with the owner. When it became clear the Borough Council had to use its legal powers to get the building repaired, Historic England stepped in to provide technical advice and grant funding.
Historic England also encouraged the Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust (DBHT) to work up a conversion project and secure finance in order to take on the building.
Dr Ben Robinson, Partnerships Leader at Historic England in the Midlands, said: ‘We can’t afford to lose a building of Wingfield Station’s historical importance. Amber Valley Borough Council showed real leadership in exercising its legal powers to compulsory purchase the former station, and Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust has pulled out all the stops to create an exciting and viable plan for the building’s future.
‘The National Lottery is supporting this project, but work is needed now and it will be some time before further Lottery funding can be obtained.
‘Historic England has provided this grant to make sure the most urgent repairs are undertaken as soon as feasible and the building is saved.’
Lucy Godfrey, Project Co-ordinator on behalf of DHBT, said: ‘DHBT has been fortunate enough to receive amazing support from Historic England; from the early days of striving to save this unique Grade II* listed railway station from total ruin, to acquiring the site from Amber Valley Borough Council, following a successful Compulsory Purchase Order.
‘The support team at Historic England have contributed an incredible amount of time and energy towards this project, for which DHBT - and our iconic station building - are extremely grateful.
‘We are looking forward to working with the team, alongside our own experts and volunteers, to identify the best ways in which we can protect Francis Thompson’s sole remaining Midland Railway Station.’
