07.01.14
Gravesend platforms upgraded for longer trains
A £19m upgrade of Gravesend station is set to boost capacity in Kent, as 12-car trains will be able to stop there for the first time.
Over the festive period, Network Rail delivered a new platform and lengthened existing platforms to accommodate longer trains. A new footbridge and lifts were also introduced, offering step-free access at the station.
Gravesend station reopened yesterday following the 15-day upgrade, which was delivered by contractor Spencer Rail and funded through the Access for All programme.
Fiona Taylor, Network Rail’s route managing director for Kent, said: “Passengers will see and benefit from a much-improved Gravesend station now this work is complete. The new platforms are an important part of boosting capacity in Kent and will be able to accommodate longer trains which will provide more space and seats for passengers.
“Completing work of this nature is never easy but it was carefully planned at a traditionally quieter time of the year to keep disruption to a minimum. I would like to thank passengers for their patience while we completed this upgrade and can assure them that we will continue to work with our partners and invest in the railway in Kent to provide the best possible service.”
Charles Horton, managing director of Southeastern said: “This project is part of our ongoing commitment to invest in and improve services for passengers, and part of our plan to meet the increasing demand for our services. Gravesend station now not only have a crucial third platform which will give us more flexibility with operating the service, but the station is now also fully accessible. We’d like to thank our customers for their understanding and patience while this work was carried out.”
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