Great Central Railway (GCR) is delighted to announce the appointment of Ian Walters to its Board of Directors, bringing experience from his three-decade-long career in the railway to the popular heritage railway.

A qualified accountant, Ian began his career in the retail and defence sectors before joining the rail industry in 1991. His tenure at Chiltern Railways saw him rise to the position of Finance Director in 2001. In 2009, Ian founded SLC, where he serves as Managing Director. Under his leadership, SLC has successfully opened 12 new railway stations, with an additional 11 set to open soon, and numerous projects in development.

Ian also serves as a Director of E-Rail, a pioneering company that utilises land value capture to fund rail schemes, which has successfully funded part of the Northumberland Line. Additionally, he holds directorships at WSMR – an open-access rail proposal – and SLC Property and SLC Investments, further cementing his influence in shaping the future of rail.

Richard Patching, Chairman of the Board at Great Central Railway, said:

“We are thrilled to welcome Ian Walters to the Board of Great Central Railway. Ian’s extensive experience in rail development, his innovative approach to funding and infrastructure, and his proven leadership in delivering successful projects make him a tremendous asset to Great Central Railway. His passion for rail aligns perfectly with our mission to preserve and enhance this historic railway, and we are confident that his expertise will help us achieve our ambitious goals.”

Ian adds:

"The Great Central Railway has a rich history and an important role in preserving the legacy of railways in the UK. I look forward to supporting the board to help it continue to inspire and delight future generations, while contributing to the broader community."

Ian Walters’ appointment marks an exciting chapter for Great Central Railway, as it continues to provide unforgettable experiences for visitors and steam enthusiasts while securing its place in the future of heritage rail.