Passengers will now benefit from improved access at Eridge station in East Sussex after the opening of a new £1.8m footbridge. The work was needed due to the age and condition of the old structure, in order to protect the safety of those using the bridge and the trains operating below.
Eridge station serves the rural district in East Sussex with Southern trains services via the Uckfield branch of the Oxted line. The existing staircases and bridge have been replaced with a new modern-designed footbridge.
Glazing panels have been incorporated into the footbridge to allow for natural light. The platform canopies at Eridge station have also been refurbished, improving the overall passenger experience for passengers commuting to London or visiting the Spa Valley Railway.
Paul Harwood, regional investment director for Network Rail, said: “I’m very grateful to passengers for their patience whilst we improved the footbridge at Eridge station. The new bridge will deliver a safe and reliable walking route over the railway while maintaining access between the lineside communities.
“We are committed to improving the railway environment for passengers, and this footbridge will enhance their journey experience for many years to come.”
Chris Fowler, Customer Services Director for Southern and Gatwick Express, said: “On behalf of our Eridge customers, we welcome Network Rail’s major investment in modern safety and comfort standards.
“The new footbridge will complement the comprehensive refurbishment in the pipeline for Eridge station, including improvements to the main building, better seating and toilets, as part of our network-wide, multimillion-pound station improvement programme.
“Meanwhile, our passengers can travel safe in the knowledge that we continue to keep our stations and trains clean with a stringent cleaning regime, using a long-lasting viruscide.”
Mark Dodd, Customer Service Manager at Spa Valley Railway said: “The Spa Valley Railway are absolutely delighted with the new footbridge; the project team has spent considerable time and effort in designing and approving such an appropriate structure, which fits into the Heritage feel of the station.
“The project has been a true reflection of multi organisations working collaboratively together, to produce something so great. It really enhances the feel of the station. A 21st Century structure which blends sympathetically with the Heritage feel.”
Photo credit: Network Rail
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