Avanti West Coast Champions Accessible Travel and Community Connections at Annual Conference
We recently hosted our fifth annual Community Rail Conference at Preston’s new Vault Youth Zone, ahead of its official opening in spring 2026. The event brought together over 30 Community Rail Partnership (CRP) officers and chairs, creating a valuable space for networking and building new relationships across the region.
The day focused on how accessible travel can unlock opportunities and strengthen social mobility, with plenty of collaboration and idea-sharing.
Highlights from the event:
CRPs exchanged ideas on working with charities and local organisations to promote inclusive travel.
Attendees toured Vault Youth Zone, reflecting on how accessible spaces empower younger generations.
A dedicated workshop showcased our ongoing work on accessibility and invited suggestions for local improvements.
Networking sessions helped foster new partnerships and strengthen ties between CRPs and Avanti West Coast.
Managing Director Andy Mellors spoke about the importance of collaboration in creating a railway that is inclusive, accessible, and welcoming for all. Guests also heard from Mark Tomlinson of Pear Tree School, who praised Avanti’s support in helping students build confidence through rail travel.
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