Lowestoft station's 121-year-old canopy is restored

Works to repair and fully restore what had been described as a rotten and leaky front entrance canopy at Lowestoft railway station started earlier this year.

And now passengers at Lowestoft station will be greeted by a smart, rejuvenated canopy following a three-month refurbishment programme by Greater Anglia.

What it looked like prior to the refurbishment works on the main canopy at Lowestoft rail station on Denmark Road, Station Square. Picture: James Bass After construction firm Capel C.S Ltd had been appointed "to lead refurbishment works for the main canopy at Lowestoft train station" the 121-year-old canopy has now been given "a new lease of life."

The canopy had originally been installed in 1903 when the booking hall was extended, and it contained elements of the original 1855 entrance canopy.

Now with the restored canopy at Lowestoft station, passengers at the fourth busiest station in Suffolk are being greeted by newly refurbished awnings following a project that has "enhanced both the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the front of the station."

A Greater Anglia spokesman said: "The recently refreshed canopy retains the existing features of the original canopy but has been refurbished with a GRP material (fibreglass), to ensure that it can easily be maintained and is future-proof.

"Some of the original timber was also used alongside the incorporation of the original brackets.

The newly refurbished canopy at Lowestoft Railway Station. Picture: Greater Anglia (Image: Greater Anglia)

"The canopy was painted with a heritage livery to match the wider station colour scheme."

The works have also seen the old roof covering replaced along with brick and stone restoration to improve the front elevation of the building.

Defected structural timbers have been replaced and additional supports have been installed.

As part of the project, Greater Anglia secured funding from the Railway Heritage Trust.

Simone Bailey, Greater Anglia's director of asset management, said: "Lowestoft station has a rich history, and we are pleased to deliver a smart, refurbished and restored entrance that will enhance the experience for passengers.

"It was really important that we preserved the original look of the entrance, and I am pleased that, through our contractor Capel C.S Ltd, we have delivered an upgraded canopy that is fit for a station with such a historical significance."