SMALL railway stations could branch out into a new line of business if a Huddersfield transport group has its way.

Dozens of stations could have the potential to add convenience stores, bookshops, travel agencies and other outlets, it is claimed.

Dr Paul Salveson, director of the Transport Research and Information Network, said: "Larger stations, such as London Waterloo or Manchester Piccadilly, have lots of retail activity, including convenience stores.

"There must be scope for providing retail facilities at smaller stations."

Ideas will be explored at a conference his organisation is holding at the Co-op's New Century Hall in Manchester, on Tuesday, September 23.

One example which will be highlighted is Cooden Beach station - a small station on the south coast - where staff sell both tickets and groceries.

Dr Salveson said: "This has been extremely successful.

"It has changed the economics of staffing stations - the staff are there in the evening, and the entire station feels safe and welcoming.

"And it has given the local community a useful facility which wasn't there before."

The Transport Research and Information Network - known as TR&IN - is based at the Brian Jackson Centre in New North Parade, Huddersfield.

Dr Salveson said: "Having a shop on a station makes good commercial sense if the location is right and the footfall is sufficient.

"Not every station is suitable but we're convinced that around the country there are dozens of potential candidates."