Warwickshire County Council has said that it would like a local community group to take over the running of the Kenilworth Railway Station ticket office.

WCC's statement comes after the current manager of the office and shop, Tony Freakley, announced that he would not extend his contract with West Midlands Railway after September.

The station's footfall had begun to suffer from an unreliable service before the pandemic. This was then reduced further when WMR completely halted trains along the Nuneaton to Leamington Spa line in January.

As a result the county council as well as the operator have received a great deal of local criticism for their handling of the station throughout the pandemic.

Despite this, WCC's portfolio holder for property, Cllr Peter Butlin, has said that the council is hoping a local organisation might take over the contract.

"We would be delighted if local community groups had first refusal on taking up the tenancy and taking advantage of the business opportunity it offers," he said.

"Our experienced team of business support officers can help with advice and support for anyone looking to set up a business or social enterprise."

Cllr Butlin also said he expects visitor numbers to the station to steadily increase now that social restrictions have been lifted.

This despite the fact that WMR is still operating a part bus replacement service along the line, and has already warned of last-minute cancellations.

He said: "The station was well-used and we fully expect that thoroughfare of human traffic to return in the coming months as we start to emerge from the pandemic.

"Indeed, as people look to get out and about after such a lengthy period at home, it could well see visitors increase. We shall see but we are very hopeful.

"It is a 'blank canvas' on which any potential tenants could stamp their personality and really make it their own and we would welcome that."

Anyone interested in discussing the business opportunity at the station should, in the first instance, contact [email protected]

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