Stronger Communities Through Local Railways

Supporting thriving places through people-focused rail projects and local collaboration.

North Cheshire Community Rail Partnership

Our Vision

Everyone Proud of Our Railways

We imagine a future where every community across Cheshire, Halton and Warrington feels a strong connection to their railway. When people feel pride in their railways, they are more likely to use them, support them and benefit from the value they bring. We will know we are successful when:

  • Our railways are seen as part of what makes local areas great to live, study or work in.
  • They play a key role in sustainable economic and social development.
  • Communities recognise how the railways help places to grow and thrive.

Our Mission

North Cheshire Community Rail Partnership

Our mission is simple but powerful

To identify, develop and deliver meaningful projects that support our vision, both directly as a partnership, and by enabling collaboration with community stakeholders. 

Everything we do is shaped by this mission, from community initiatives to travel promotion and educational outreach. As a Community Interest Company, we operate not-for-profit and are focused on bringing people together to unlock local benefits through the railway.

Our Four Strategic Themes

Through consultation, collaboration and local insight, we’ve identified four strategic themes, each with clear outcomes that we work towards. These themes guide our work and help us measure social value with meaningful impact.

1. Stations in Their Place

Connecting Stations to Community Identity
  • Stations that feel welcoming, safe and vibrant
  • Clear gateways between rail and the surrounding towns and villages
  • Better integration with walking, cycling, buses and local networks

2. Affordable Access and Promotion

Enabling Sustainable Travel Choices
  • Wider awareness of value for money rail options
  • Truly accessible travel for all ages and abilities
  • Joint marketing with local attractions to increase visitor numbers

3. Health, Well-being and Inclusion

Supporting Community Wellbeing
  • Volunteer opportunities and support for local charitable aims
  • Access to spaces and services promoting mental and physical health
  • Inclusive outreach to underrepresented or hard-to-reach communities

4. Research, Education and Heritage

Inspiring Learning and Preserving Our Railway Stories
  • Enabling research through strong links with the University of Chester and beyond
  • Engaging schools and colleges with inspiring education and careers programmes
  • Recording and sharing the railways’ social and economic impact

Delivering the Vision

Our Core Management Plan

Our Vision and Mission are delivered through six integrated Development and Delivery Plans. These are designed to reflect local priorities, support our strategic themes and ensure that everything we do has a positive and lasting impact across Cheshire, Halton and Warrington.

Each plan sets out clear actions, shaped by collaboration with partners and communities. Together, they provide a practical framework for creating social value through the railway and turning our shared goals into reality.

Interested in Working with Us?

Whether you’re a potential project partner or someone looking to volunteer locally, we’d love to hear from you. Our work is stronger with people like you involved.