Accreditation for rail group which makes area more inclusive for all

The Penistone Line Partnership (PLP) has been awarded Department for Transport’s (DfT) Accreditation Status, a formal recognition that a community rail group operates to a high standard and that its objectives and activities are supported by Government.

The partnership has been working over the last few months to develop a clear activity action plan, across the Huddersfield to Sheffield line, for the benefit of users and communities along the route.

PLP’s community rail officer, Rowena Chantler said: “We are delighted to have achieved accreditation, and to be able to share some positive news at this difficult time. It is recognition of the many individuals, communities and projects we have worked with for the past 27 years.”​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Carolyn Watson, community and sustainability director for Northern, said: “Achieving accreditation is a real testament to the dedication and commitment of the Penistone Line Partnership team to drive greater community engagement along the line and surrounding area. They are setting a standard with projects that engage young people, foster a more inclusive society and make the rail network a more welcoming place for all. We look forward to continuing to support them in the delivery of their future plans.”

CrossCountry’s stakeholder liaison manager, Alex Bray, said: “We are delighted that Penistone Line Partnership has received Community Rail Network Accreditation in recognition of all the excellent work they have done, We look forward to continuing our close working relationship with our Penistone Line partners to help them deliver more inspiring community initiatives and projects over the months and years ahead.”

Jools Townsend, chief executive of Community Rail Networks, added: “This underlines the value of their work, promoting wellbeing and mental health, engaging local families and businesses, and bringing local people together with the railway as a focal point.”

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