Train station bins make comeback in Rochdale

Councillor Allen Brett

Transport leaders have welcomed a decision to install litter bins at six train stations in Rochdale for the first time in years.

Most bins were removed from stations across the UK in the 1970s following a number of IRA bombings on the London Underground. However, the Department for Transport has now issued new security advice which means hoop bins with clear bags can be put in at some local train stations.

Speaking at the Transport Network Committee meeting, the Rochdale spokesperson for Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority, Councillor Allen Brett, said: “The rail companies obviously need to closely follow the guidance they’re getting from the government about how to deal with the terror threat. I’m pleased that its latest advice is that bins without lids can now be installed at local stations.

“Unfortunately some passengers have continued to throw away their rubbish at train stations, even though there aren’t any bins. I hope the new bins will help to keep our stations tidy so that people are given a better impression of public transport.”

Northern Rail is installing bins at 30 train stations in Greater Manchester, including Castleton, Littleborough, Milnrow, Newhey, Rochdale and Smithy Bridge in Rochdale. It will extend the scheme to other stations in Greater Manchester in the future.

Jamie Ross, Northern Rail Area Director, added: “Reinstating litter bins at our stations is a positive move and will ensure we continue to provide a clean and comfortable environment for both passengers and staff.”

Further information about public transport services in Greater Manchester is available at www.gmpte.com, or by calling Traveline on 0871 200 22 33 (calls cost 10p per minute from landlines). Lines are open from 7am to 8pm, Monday to Friday, and from 8am to 8pm at weekends.