Work resumes on exciting regeneration of Skegness station

East Midlands Railway (EMR), which is operated by Transport UK, has confirmed that construction work has resumed at Skegness station, marking an important milestone in the ongoing transformation of the station and its role within the local community.

The £3.3 million project is being delivered in partnership with Network Rail and new delivery partner Gelder Group, a Lincolnshire-based contractor with significant experience in delivering high-quality restoration and refurbishment projects.

Funding has been provided through the existing allocation from the Government’s Towns Fund via Connected Coast alongside investment from EMR and Network Rail.

The scheme will see the existing station building fully refurbished, alongside the restoration of the remaining sections of the historic Red Star Building.

This includes essential works such as roof repairs, repointing, installation of new double-glazed windows, and comprehensive upgrades to mechanical and electrical systems, including modern fire and security equipment.

Once complete, the improvements will provide significantly enhanced facilities for customers, including new waiting areas, accessible toilets, Changing Places facilities, and parent and baby amenities.

The project will also create a new community café and flexible bookable space for community use, as well as two new retail units, helping to support local businesses and create a more welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.

Additional improvements include the installation of a new cycle shelter and infrastructure to support seasonal and pop-up retail, helping to encourage sustainable travel and further strengthen the station’s role as a gateway to the town.

In the coming weeks, the existing station building will close as station operations transfer into the newly refurbished sections of the Red Star Building. 

Philippa Cresswell, Customer Services Director at East Midlands Railway, said: “The resumption of construction at Skegness station is a significant milestone and reflects our shared commitment, alongside Network Rail and Gelder Group, to delivering a station that better serves both customers and the local community.

"These works will transform the station into a more welcoming, accessible, and vibrant gateway to the town, with modern facilities and new community and retail spaces. We are pleased to see progress moving forward again and look forward to customers and residents benefiting from these important improvements.”

Chris Baron, Chair of Connected Coast said: “It is great to see the works getting underway once again.

“The Connected Coast Board is pleased to continue to support this project through the Towns Fund because not only will it bring improved community facilities for local people, it will also create a better welcome and first impression for visitors.

“This is an important refurbishment of a vital gateway into the town, revitalising the existing space and bringing back into use the historic Red Star building.”

Steve Gelder MBE FCG, Chief Executive Officer, of Gelder Group, said: "‘We are proud to be delivering the next phase of the regeneration at Skegness station in partnership with East Midlands Railway and Network Rail. As a Lincolnshire-based contractor, this project is particularly meaningful to us as it invests directly in the infrastructure and communities we serve.

"The refurbishment of the station and the restoration of the historic Red Star Building will not only enhance the customer experience but also create valuable community and commercial space that will benefit Skegness for many years to come.

"Our team has significant experience in heritage restoration and complex refurbishment projects, and we are committed to delivering a high-quality finish that respects the building’s character while providing modern, accessible facilities."