As part of its on-going programme of enhancements, Govia Thameslink Railway recently announced a set of organisational changes designed to increase its responsiveness to the needs of rail commuters.
In 2016 these improvements, part-funded by Elstree & Borehamwood’s Town Council and its Youth Council, included providing fixed seating on the forecourt, adding new planters, taming an overgrown area behind bus shelter C and putting in place new signage to help guide visitors at the station.
Now station manager James Gillett is moving on and has been promoted to area manager for Thameslink's London core - covering West Hampstead to Blackfriars station.
Elstree and Borehamwood Town Councillor Pat Strack said: “Whether by helping train the community to use the new defibrillators or in organising Christmas events at the station, James has brought our community and GTR closer together more than at any time in the past.
"Particularly enjoyed by the community were “Try a Train” organised by James for local groups. DR96 had 2 trips, one to tour St Pancras and the second time to tour Kings Cross, a quiz on the way out and bingo on the way back with prizes provided by GTR.
"Cllr Sandra Parnell reported that all members enjoyed having lunch together paid for by GTR. A group from the Visually Impaired Club and the Tuesday Drop In also took advantage of the offer.”
Recognising James’ contribution to improvements at the station during the past 18 months Bob Redman, chairman of First Impressions said the train operator has been a key member of the project but in his time here as station manager James has added an extra level of energy and enthusiasm in all that he has done.
Town Mayor Cllr Clive Butchins said: “It has been a pleasure to have worked with James, who has been really helpful in a number of areas, but most notably in making Elstree & Borehamwood Station such a welcoming environment for visitors and residents.
"He will be missed. I wish him every success in his new role. He will always be most welcome to visit us at any time.”
Under the new arrangements Elstree & Borehamwood Station will be the responsibility of Sam Bowler, area manager for Thameslink’s outer stations.
She said: "I am looking forward to our new station manager, soon to be appointed, continuing the close working relationship James has established with the local community and doing everything possible to improve the station further for our passengers."
The final words belong to James Gillett: “From the first day I managed the station I knew that this was a special place and it has been a total pleasure in being able to work with our many community partners.
"The station really is now firmly part of the community it serves and I feel proud to have been a part of it.
"I look forward to coming back next year to be part of the 150th birthday celebration of the arrival of rail to Elstree & Borehamwood.”
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