Network Rail is starting work on an £800,000 three-month project to strengthen, refurbish and brighten up the footbridge at Narborough in Leicestershire station.
From Monday 21 September, work will be undertaken to remove the main footbridge span, completely renovate it and then put it back in place. The refurbishment works mean the bridge will remain fit for purpose for passengers and people visiting the town, as well as providing a boost to the traditional aesthetics of the station.
The metallic elements of the footbridge will be stripped back to bare metal to allow repairs to be carried out, before being fully repainted in the heritage colours of green and white, to match the recently painted signal box. Work will also be carried out to improve the surfacing across the footbridge and its adjoining staircases. The project is expected to be completed in mid-December.
To accommodate works, the footbridge will be temporarily closed for two-months between the following dates:
- Monday 28 September – Friday 27 November
During this time, passenger access between platforms will be via Narborough level crossing. Step-free access to each platform will be maintained and works will not impact on train services.
To allow the bridge to be removed and reinstalled safely, there will also be two overnight road closures at the level crossing:
- 21:00 Saturday 03 October until 07:30 Sunday 04 October
- 21:00 Saturday 31 October until 07:30 Sunday 01 November
During these closures, a signposted diversion will be in place for drivers, and access will be maintained for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists.
Gary Walsh, Route Director for Network Rail’s East Midlands route, said: “This essential work to improve the footbridge at Narborough station will mean it can continue to be used safely and reliably for years to come.
“We’re sorry for any inconvenience the temporary closure of the footbridge, the work and the overnight road closures cause for passengers, motorists and the community of Narborough.”
Neil Grabham, Customer Services Director for East Midlands Railway, said: “The temporary closure of the footbridge at Narborough will allow Network Rail to make the necessary improvements to the structure for future use for passengers.
“Step free access will be maintained as passengers can use the level crossing to get across to the other platform. The works do not impact on any of our train services. We would like to thank passengers for their patience and apologise for any inconvenience caused during this time.”
Photo credit: Network Rail
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