Station clock tower restored as part of upgrade

A railway station clock tower in a seaside town has been "painstakingly" restored to its former glory as part of a major upgrade.

Scarborough's Grade II-listed station is also getting a new roof, drainage system and an improved waiting room and ticket office as part of the £14m scheme.

A recent grant of £203,000 from the Railway Heritage Trust has meant the gold clock tower's four faces could be individually restored at the same time, said Network Rail, who carried out the work.

A spokesperson added that works are due to be completed by the end of March and the additional funding meant the company had been able to "deliver more benefits than originally planned".

Network Rail also confirmed workers would remain on site after the project's completion for the controlled removal of asbestos found in the station's social club, ticket office and cafe.

However, the areas remain open and pose "no risk to the public", though the cafe will be closed from 30 March for up to three weeks.

Ann Shannon, Network Rail scheme project manager, said: "The main project is on track for completion as planned this month, but some of our colleagues will be working at the station for slightly longer because of the asbestos we've recently identified."

Roof repairs were started after a glazing failure in 2021 and the station was made safe and full restoration began in spring 2025.

Network Rail said Scarborough's coastal location also meant other considerations had to be implemented such as hawks to prevent seagulls nesting during the main roof work and specific types of tile, paint and timber being used because of the salt-heavy sea air.

Shannon added: "We're grateful for everyone's patience and understanding while we address this safely and responsibly."

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