Network Rail’s project to build a new accessible footbridge at St Erth station in West Cornwall has reached a significant milestone with the successful installation of two lift shafts.
Each shaft, weighing 12 and 10 tonnes respectively, was positioned by a 350-tonne crane. Additionally, two steel supports for the footbridge were installed.
Network Rail’s contractor, BAM Nuttall, carried out the work on a Saturday night after train services had ceased, ensuring minimal disruption for passengers. When completed this winter, the grade II-listed station will become fully accessible for the first time since its construction in 1852.
The next major phase will involve lifting the bridge deck into place and carefully dismantling and rebuilding the existing footbridge at Cranmore station on the East Somerset Railway, a heritage steam railway.
Part of the Department for Transport’s Access for All scheme, this project continues Network Rail’s investment in the iconic St Ives branch line, which supports tourism and local businesses by carrying a million passengers annually.
Alina Wolfe Murray, Network Rail senior sponsor, stated: “It’s exciting to see a major stage of the project successfully completed and we’d like to thank local residents and passengers for their patience. We have planned our work to cause as little disruption as possible, especially during the busy summer months. When complete, more people than ever will be able to use the railway and passengers will be able to get around St Erth station much more easily.”
Richard Williams-Pears, Cornwall Council portfolio holder for transport, commented: “We are committed to ensuring that Cornwall is accessible to everyone who is living, visiting, or working in the Duchy. The improvements to this key interchange are very good news for residents, commuters, and visitors, enabling more people to use public transport for various needs, thus reducing reliance on cars and promoting sustainable transport with better-integrated rail and bus facilities.”
Sharon Holloway, GWR West Cornwall station manager, added: “We’re delighted this planned work for St Erth station has begun. We are absolutely committed to improving access to the full range of services the railway can offer. This work, once complete, will make the station fully accessible for the first time in its history, adding massive benefits to the local economy, and the community of St Erth and the surrounding area. The station is extremely well used and the lifts will enhance our customers’ experience as they embark on another GWR adventure.
