Need for better signage for rail visitors at station

I regularly pick up and drop off a passenger at Hinckley Railway Station and while waiting there often wonder what impression visitors have when arriving at this gateway to the town.

I have seen passengers who were obvious strangers to the town, arriving from Leicester or beyond, exiting from Platform 2 and looking totally bewildered at their surroundings, not knowing that what they see in front of them is Burbage rather than Hinckley town.

There is a great need for some signposts particularly at the foot of the bridge on the Burbage side indicating the direction to taxis and to the town centre and more signs at the exit of the station yard, pointing the way perhaps to the council offices, the town centre, public toilets and bus station.

At various times I have been asked for directions to all of these.

Apart from a small scale map of the town on each platform and details of some bus services, there seems to be very little meaningful information around.

As to the station itself, if it is after 1pm our visitors will find the booking office closed, no access to toilets and for when they are awaiting their departure, very limited seating either under cover or in the open.

At least our visitors to the town can admire the efforts of the Friends of Hinckley Railway Station but come on, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council and East Midlands Trains, let’s try and be helpful to our guests and make them feel welcome.

Ivan Christon