Madeley’s historic station will be given a new lease of life this autumn when a council children’s service moves into the building.
The borough’s learning and behaviour team will begin working from the site in September, and is expected to remain there for 12 months.
The station was used by passenger trains from 1861 until 1952, with freight services ending in 1960. Since then it has been used as offices, but more recently has been boarded up and unused.
Madeley councillor Gill Green said she welcomed the news that the building was to be reopened, but said she wanted to know more about the future plans for the site once the year is up.
It is understood that the building is earmarked to be sold for residential development, but planning permission for the change of use has not yet been submitted.
Councillor Green said: “Currently the building is boarded up much to the irritation of local residents.
“I am confident Madeley residents welcome short-term improvements conferred by this 12-month lease but would consider and rightly so that any future proceeds from the sale of this historic building in Madeley should be used for the benefit of Madeley.
“Particularly when there are details of the new Madeley Centre not yet complete due to budgetary constraints and I would ask the Cabinet to reconsider their decision as to where any proceeds from this sale will be spent.”
James Dunn, team leader (development) for Telford & Wrekin Council’s property and design team, said the learning and behaviour team will be moving into the property in September from its current base at the Swan Centre in Grange Avenue.
The service works with pupils, staff in school, other agencies and parents to help children with behaviour or learning problems, including dyslexia, autistic spectrum disorders, anger management issues and language development problems.
It also organises behaviour support, nurture groups, and parent and sibling workshops, and offers schools special education needs planning and support.
Mr Dunn said: “During the summer we will be doing an element of tidying up, weed killing etc. It is likely that the team will be in occupation for 12 months.
“In terms of the planning application for residential use this is currently being worked up with the plans and associated planning statement nearly completed.”
By Pam Griffin