KiwiRail prepared to lease Woodville station

KiwiRail staff attended the meeting in big numbers.

Fears of the imminent demolition of Woodville's iconic railway station were allayed at a meeting at the station on Thursday, October 6.

KiwiRail is happy to lease the facility to an interested group if one can be set up.

"They will consider giving a lease at a reasonable figure. Its a matter now of getting busy and forming a group. In my view its got to be locally led. The rail groups that supported the meeting can back up the group that could be formed along with umbrella organisations," Don Selby, president of Pahiatua Rail Preservation Society, said.

"People have been concerned the station hasn't been loved for a long time - it's still a useful building."

"It seemed to me that everyone who attended the meeting was keen to see the station survive. KiwiRail has demonstrated a willingness to do it. It is their preferred option - they don't want to have to demolish it. This could still be a good facility for Woodville.

Train drivers may be able to stop and use the toilet facilities into the future if this happens.

"I'm quite encouraged by the attendance of the public and KiwiRail in some numbers, and their willingness to give some space to get the idea off the ground," he said.

Don will be communicating with Tararua District Council, Woodville Districts Vision and Woodville service clubs.