In order to save commuters time switching between platforms, Network Rail is installing two temporary staircases at Royston station next month.
The footbridge between platforms 1 and 2 temporarily closed in spring 2020, following an inspection which detected serious faults in the structure. Major improvement work is needed to ensure it is fit for purpose for the foreseeable future.
Since closing, more Great Northern staff have been on hand to help passengers use the long diversion which escorts them out and around the station, then over the adjacent road bridge.
In the meantime, as well as plans to improve accessibility, Network Rail is installing temporary staircases from each platform direct to the road bridge to ease passenger experience during the works.
Route Director for Network Rail’s East Coast route, Paul Rutter, said “we would like to thank passengers for their patience whilst the footbridge at Royston station is closed, and we apologise for any inconvenience. Our teams will be working as quickly as possible to provide this temporary route over the railway to connect passengers to the platforms.
“We are continuing to develop plans to improve accessibility for people using the station as well as making sure the existing footbridge can be used safely and reliably in future.”
Customer Services Director for Great Northern and Thameslink, Jenny Saunders, said “these new temporary staircases will be welcomed by our customers at Royston station as they’ll save them having to walk quite so far to swap platforms.
“We’ll continue to work closely with Paul and his team at Network Rail to establish the best long-term solution, with an eye to improving accessibility.”
