South Western Railway commits a further £265,000 to community rail

South Western Railway (SWR) have recently announced their new alliance with Community Rail Partnerships on the Reading to Ashford and Windsor & Eton Riverside lines that have recently launched.

SWR are committing £265,00 to the projects which will total the amount of Community Rail Partnerships across the SWR network to 12.

Community Rail Partnerships are not-for-profit organisations and help to bring together communities and their local railways. The partnerships have varied levels of work however they all aim to:

Promote an understanding and use of railways
Bringing disused station properties back to use, which could include work such as renovations
Help local communities have a voice in what they need, to assist with railway developments

The newest Community Rail Partnership will affect from Reading to Ashford and Windsor & Eton Riverside. It will work with local schools and groups to support those who face difficulties travelling. The CRP will partner with local community groups, such as art societies and organisations that work with those who have mental health disabilities and needs.

SWR will be providing funding and employing an officer to each Community Rail Partnership. The office will be responsible for delivering the community activities. SWR tries to remain actively involved with each CRP, working with them to deliver outcomes that are as beneficial for the communities as possible.