SELCRP are excited to announce the arrival at Platforms 4 and 5 of a brand new ‘Welcome to Bolton’ sign. The striking sign, which is clearly visible to passengers approaching the station by trains at either platform, has been designed and produced by artist Andy Smith as part of the ‘Stations of Sanctuary’ project funded by Community Rail Network, Northern and Transport for Greater Manchester. Working in partnership with Bolton City of Sanctuary, who work with local refugees and people seeking asylum, the project aims to make railway stations more accessible and welcoming places for everyone.
The design for the sign was developed as a result of focus groups to discuss what would make people feel more welcome on arrival at the station, and includes the word for ‘Welcome’ in a different language inside each larger letter. The resulting bold and bright mural is eye catching for people arriving at the station on the train, but also contains more intricate details which can be observed up close while standing on the platform.
The sign is accompanied by a range of other project outputs including new artwork recently installed at the station representing diverse cultures, a large information and signposting board outside of the community room on Platform 5, a staff resource booklet, and a report with recommendations for train operating companies.
SELCRP will also be presenting a draft accreditation scheme to City of Sanctuary UK in the hope that others may become official ‘Stations of Sanctuary’ in the near future!
