THE project to revamp a ‘gateway to Cornwall’ building has taken a ‘significant step’ forward.

And people can help even more by voting for the scheme in a public funding contest.

Meeting last week, Satash Town Councillors have appointed architects to come up with as design for the future use of the town’s dilapidated railway station.

The council bought the long disused building for £165,000 in April to create a community hub at a site once described as the ‘gateway to Cornwall’ for rail travellers. The project is expected to cost up to £500,000.

Now Plymouth-based consultancy Bailey Partnership have been appointed to come up with a scheme for the building.

They ‘provided a well set-out response which responded excellently to the brief,’ reported Cllr Richard Bickford, chair of the council’s station property sub committee.

‘Their methodology showed a clear understanding of the process. Their project team has excellent breadth and strength (they employ over 100 staff across five offices) and includes conservation architects, QS, and project managers.

‘They provided clear evidence of relevant experience with listed buildings such as The Millfields and The Museum of Rural Life, and have worked within grant conditions.

‘They have also a track record of working with community groups and town councils; a very interesting example is their creation of work hubs in listed buildings in Torbay. They have also delivered projects with mixed uses such as cafes/bars/restaurants.’

The Bailey Partnership has been involved with a number of schemes in Saltash, including the club changing facilities at Salt Mill Park (in conjunction with Groundwork Trust), and proposals for the renovation of the Scouts Water Activity Centre.

Cllr Bickford said after the meeting: ‘This is clearly a significant step, and the design will need to meet the aspirations of the Town Council and potential funders who will have their own requirements.’

The team behind the project is still seeking funding and members are campaigning for more votes through the Aviva Community Fund ballot.

The insurance giant’s community grants scheme could contribute £25,000 to the station refurbishment project, and people can add to the 3,871 votes cast in support so far at community-fund.aviva.co.uk/voting/project/view/17-6109