Siemens Mobility has become the first corporate partner of Community Rail Network to officially adopt a railway station, joining forces with the local community to transform Aston Station into a vibrant and welcoming hub for residents and visitors.
The initiative brought together Siemens colleagues and local volunteers together for a station walkaround to identify environmental improvements. Plans for the station range from immediate practical support, such as regular litter picks and general upkeep, to longer-term enhancements including new benches, planters, and community artwork. Ensuring the station reflects local pride, work experience students from the area have already contributed design ideas to help shape the space.
Steve Bick, Project Director at Siemens Mobility, said:
"This adoption programme is about genuine, long-term partnership. Aston Station sits at the heart of our local community and with our Birmingham office and current project works in the area, we're ideally positioned to be active neighbours. We're committed to looking after this station beyond our project completion, working alongside the council and local organisations to create a space the community can be proud of. It's also a chance to inspire young people in the area to explore careers in transport and engineering. Through our STEM activities, we’ll also engage local schools, inviting students to design artworks for display at the station, bringing the community, the railway and local education together."
As a company with a significant presence in Birmingham – including ongoing project works at Birmingham Railway Operating Centre – Siemens Mobility is leveraging its expertise and resources to help transform rail travel and transport in the region. The adoption comes after months of collaboration with West Midlands Railway and local community engagement to identify how Siemens can best support the area.
Shantel Carty, Community Engagement Manager, West Midlands Railway, said:
“We are so pleased to have Siemens on board as station adopters. Acting as a gateway to Villa Park, more than 700,000 passengers travel through Aston station every year for football matches and events. We look forward to seeing how Siemens will brighten up the station and make it more welcoming for everyone.”
The programme is designed to be ongoing, with regular volunteer activities, community engagement events, and continuous improvements planned throughout the year and beyond. With the adoption formally in place, work can now begin on planned improvements that will enhance the station environment, strengthen community links and deliver lasting benefits for passengers and the local area.
