A TRAIN line boss is encouraging entrepreneurs to come forward with ideas to transform disused stations into business ventures following the transformation of Mistley Station.

Mistley station house has proved to be popular with clients since it was transformed and reopened as The Station Hair and Beauty on Sunday, June 10.

Jessica Wilson and her partner Glynne Gerrard took on the ambitious challenge of turning the Grade II listed building into a salon.

Before restoration work began last year the building had been empty and boarded-up for more than four years.

As part of the refurbishment, Glynne installed a window and new glass doors to the existing arches, to link the station master’s house and the station building.

Jess’s former business was called The Shed, operating literally from a shed in her back garden.

She said: "It was a big decision to take on the station house but I needed more space as I was turning bookings away at home.

"People who come along say they love the interior and the fact we have managed to retain the period features in a luxurious way.

"We can now offer so much more to our customers.

"I’m so glad we went for it. I love being here.”

Simone Bailey, Greater Anglia’s asset management director, said this is a great example of how some inspiration and dedication can bring a disused station building right back into the heart of the community.

He said: "There are many more rooms like this at stations across our network available for both great small businesses like this and for community groups and I would urge anyone who has an idea for a project to get in touch."

Greater Anglia has a range of spaces to rent across its network.

Anyone who is interested should visit www.greateranglia.co.uk.