The Mayor of Greater Manchester met community rail leaders and volunteers today (Thursday) as the government unveiled its new Better Connected transport strategy, shining a spotlight on the growing role of grassroots groups in shaping the future of transport.

Andy Burnham visited Altrincham Interchange for a Community Rail Network event bringing together the Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership and Friends of Altrincham Interchange volunteers.

Coinciding with the launch of the government’s 10-year strategy, the visit put community rail centre stage, showcasing how local groups are helping to create more accessible, inclusive and better-used railway services, and links between transport modes.

The mayor heard how volunteers are transforming stations into welcoming community spaces and helping more people feel confident using the railway, proving the impact of putting local people at the heart of rail.

Community Rail Network chief executive Jools Townsend said: “The government’s new transport strategy focuses on creating a more joined-up, people-focused system, and giving local leaders and communities more power to do what’s right locally. Our community rail movement shows the incredible benefits this can bring for people’s lives and local areas, and how it can work in practice, with transport improvements and delivery shaped by the people who use them.

“Across Britain, we now have 77 community rail partnerships and 1,300 station volunteer groups, working with the rail industry, local leaders and partners, to help communities get greater benefit from the railway and open up opportunities. We hope this event, coming at a pivotal time for transport, will help to show what can be achieved when communities, transport partners and providers come together with people and place at the heart of decision-making.”