New footpath opens between Cosford’s station and RAF Museum
The new footpath and lighting
Visiting the RAF Museum Midlands by public transport has become safer and more convenient following the completion of a new footpath linking Cosford train station to the Museum.
The newly installed footpath along Worcester Road provides a dedicated pedestrian route between the station and the Museum, meaning users are no longer required to walk on the road or navigate the grass verge during the 15-minute walk. The improvements will benefit all users of the route including visitors to the Museum, staff and volunteers.
In addition to the footpath, new street lighting inspired by the iconic RAF roundel has been installed, bringing a distinctive RAF touch to the route, alongside directional signage. A reduced speed limit of 30mph has been introduced along the route as part of the works, further supporting road safety for all users.
Representatives from Shropshire Council and the project partners cut a ribbon to officially open the new path
Barry Smith, Director of Visitor and Income Development at RAF Museum, said:
“Making it easier for people to reach us by train is an important step towards welcoming more visitors to the RAF Museum. With a safer and more convenient route in place, it makes travelling by train a more attractive option for our visitors and colleagues alike. The new footpath is thanks to a collaboration with partners who are aligned in improving access and promoting greener travel. We are extremely pleased with the outcome, it’s going to make a huge difference.”
The project was made possible thanks to funding from Active Travel England and delivered through a successful partnership between the RAF Museum, RAF Cosford, Shropshire Council, WM Trains Ltd, West Midlands Rail Executive, with the design undertaken by WSP, works on site carried out by Kier, and exterior lighting supplied by DW Windsor. Work began in June, with the final surfacing and street lighting installation completed in October.
Rob Wilson, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet Member for transport and regeneration, said:
“This project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through excellent partnership working between Shropshire Council, WSP, RAF Museum Midlands, West Midlands Rail Executive and WM Trains Ltd. We’re delighted to see Active Travel England funding translated into a high-quality new walking link between Cosford station and the Museum, making it safer and more attractive for visitors to arrive by rail and complete their journey on foot. The delivery by our contractor Kier, including the distinctive Silver Spitfire-themed lighting, has helped create something that goes beyond a functional footway and gives the route a real sense of place and connection to Cosford’s and the Midlands’ aviation heritage. It’s a scheme we can all be genuinely proud of.”
Chris Boardman, National Active Travel Commissioner, said:
“People who choose not to drive shouldn’t have to compromise their safety. By linking the railway station directly to one of the region’s most popular attractions, this scheme gives visitors a safe and convenient alternative to the car, helps reduce pressure on local roads, and shows how relatively small investments can make a real difference to everyday journeys.”
The RAF Museum Midlands welcomes nearly 400,000 visitors each year, with 50,000 people attending the annual RAF Air Show in June. As the Museum site continues to expand as part of the Inspiring Everyone: RAF Museum Midlands Development Programme, the improved pedestrian route will support more sustainable travel options for both the local community, returning visitors, as well as new audiences visiting for the first time.
Geoff Grant, Stakeholder Manager at WM Trains Ltd, said:
“The new footpath means customers can make their way between the Museum and the railway station swiftly, safely and conveniently, and we are delighted to see the works completed.”
Nicola Batey, Area Sales Manager at DW Windsor, said:
“We were honoured to be involved in this project and to have the opportunity to create a bespoke paint finish inspired by the RAF’s iconic red, white and blue roundel. It was a unique opportunity to showcase our customisation capabilities while paying tribute to the RAF’s proud heritage.”
To celebrate this improved access, the RAF Museum is offering all visitors who arrive by train a free ride on the Flight Simulator or 4D Experience until the end of the year. Simply show your train ticket on arrival and enjoy an extra experience as part of your visit.
The Museum is open daily from 10am, entry is free. Visit rafmuseum.org/midlands to plan your next visit.
Images used should be credited: ‘© RAF Museum’
