Bolton Train Station has new 'Welcome to Bolton' sign

An artist has added a touch of colour to Bolton train station with a welcome sign.

The design for the sign includes all the languages spoken in Bolton at the last census, and the artist included the word for ‘welcome’ in a different language inside each larger letter.

It is on display at platforms four and five

The striking sign, which is clearly visible to passengers approaching the station by trains at either platform, has been designed and produced by artist Andy Smith.

It is part of the ‘Stations of Sanctuary’ project which aims to make railway stations more accessible and welcoming places for everyone by trying to create a culture of inclusion and belonging.

The project is was originally discussed before the pandemic, then reignited in 2022 after observing the impact of a re-emerging refugee crisis following the conflict in Ukraine.

Funding was obtained from Community Rail Network, Northern and Transport for Greater Manchester.

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Julie Levy, Andy Smith and Pam Spurling (Image: Julie Levy)Dr Steph Dermott who is the lead of the project said: “A key element was the creation of artwork to represent different cultures at the station, with ideas from focus groups who identified what images and signage would make them feel more welcome on arrival at the station.

“They also suggested the idea of a mural at the station that read ‘Welcome to Bolton’ in different languages.”

The large ‘Welcome’ sign is now installed at the end of Platforms four and five and was recently unveiled by Pam Spurling, Chair of Bolton City of Sanctuary.

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The design for the sign includes all the languages spoken in Bolton at the last census, and the artist included the word for ‘Welcome’ in a different language inside each larger letter.

The resulting bold and bright mural is eye catching for people arriving at the station on the train, but also contains more intricate details which can be observed up close while standing on the platform.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @chloewjourno.