Centenary Lounge Triumphs at National Railway Heritage Awards

Centenary Lounge Wins Network Rail Conservation Award

We are thrilled to share some exciting news. Centenary Lounge has been honoured with the prestigious Network Rail Conservation Award for the outstanding restoration of Leamington Spa’s refreshment room. This accolade is a testament to our commitment to preserving and enhancing the historical significance of railway buildings.

The Network Rail Conservation Award is specifically bestowed upon projects that demonstrate exceptional efforts in the restoration and conservation of listed or conservation area railway structures. The recognition also emphasises the importance of evidence showcasing a robust and appropriate ongoing maintenance regime.

The National Railway Heritage Awards, the esteemed organisation behind this recognition, has been a beacon in promoting and rewarding best practices in the re-use, restoration and continued upkeep of the rich heritage of railway buildings and structures. Originating in 1979 with a focus on the heritage railway preservation movement, the awards have evolved over the years. Since the privatisation in the 1990’s, the scope of the awards has expanded to include the infrastructure of the national rail network. Today, entries from the national sector form a substantial part of this illustrious celebration of railway heritage.

In the photo, from right to left is: Bill Reeves, Director of Rail at Transport Scotland; Aasia Baig, Founder and Managing Director of Centenary Lounge; Tom Higginson, Director Planning at Network Rail; Andy Savage, Chair of the Railway Heritage Trust

This year’s awards ceremony took place at the historic Merchant Taylor’s Hall in London, a fitting venue for an event dedicated to recognising the preservation of our railway heritage. The atmosphere was electric as industry leaders, heritage enthusiasts and conservation experts gathered to applaud the remarkable achievements of organisations and projects that have contributed to the legacy of our railways.

We are immensely proud to be part of this distinguished list of winners. Only twelve blue plaques are given every year, so we feel greatly honoured to have received such a prestigious award. The restoration of Leamington Spa’s refreshment room was a labour of love and this recognition underscores the passion and dedication of our team. Our commitment to maintaining the authenticity and charm of railway structures aligns perfectly with the ethos of the National Railway Heritage Awards.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our supporters in the rail network and The National Railway Heritage Trust, our contractors and of course our customers who have been part of this incredible journey. Your support has been invaluable, and we look forward to continuing our mission of preserving and celebrating the heritage of our railways.