What is Community Rail?
Community rail is a grassroots movement that connects people with their local railway, helping communities get social, economic and environmental value from it.
Across the UK, this is delivered through Community Rail Partnerships (CRPs), which bring together volunteers, community groups, train operators and local authorities to work collaboratively.
CRPs help improve stations, promote sustainable travel and deliver projects that support local communities. They bridge the gap between the railway industry and the places it serves, making stations more welcoming, inclusive and part of everyday community life.
Manchester Histories and Rocket: All Aboard
The Liverpool to Manchester Community Rail Partnership has been supported by Manchester Histories since 2024, which now acts as the accountable body for the partnership. Building on earlier foundations, Manchester Histories has helped to develop the partnership’s structure, coordination and delivery, working with partners across the route to support its growth.
This work is supported by funding from the National Heritage Lottery Fund and is closely linked to Rocket: All Aboard, using the railway’s heritage as a starting point for community engagement, cultural activity and future-focused projects around sustainability and inclusion.
Liverpool to Manchester Community Rail Partnership
In 2025, the Liverpool to Manchester Community Rail Partnership officially became a member of the Community Rail Network. This marked an important milestone for one of the UK’s most historic rail corridors.
The partnership covers both the Chat Moss Line and the Cheshire Lines route, working with communities from Edge Hill to Eccles, Patricroft to Padgate and across the wider corridor. It supports a growing network of Station Friends and local groups delivering projects that celebrate heritage, improve stations and bring people together.
As part of the Community Rail Network, the CRP will:
- Build strong partnerships with communities along the line
- Develop inclusive and accessible travel initiatives
- Support heritage, arts, STEM and environmental projects
- Promote sustainable, community-led rail development
- Play a key role in Rocket: All Aboard
To guide this work, an Executive Steering Group has been established, chaired by Roy G Chapman, Founder of the Partnership, bringing together partners and stakeholders from across the route.
The CRP holds regular stakeholder meetings ensuring communities have a voice in shaping projects and priorities. A new website and branding will also be launching soon, making it easier to see what’s happening and get involved, so keep an eye out.
This work is made possible through the support of partners, local authorities, train operating companies, community organisations and dedicated volunteers.
More about the Community Rail Network HERE.
If you are interested in being involved in this CRP please contact: Paul Greenwood for more information.