A significant step forward has been made in the transformation of Hither Green station, with a new footbridge now open to passengers as part of the ongoing Access for All programme.
The bridge, which officially opened on 2 October, now links all station platforms and represents a major milestone in the £28 million accessibility upgrade funded by the Department for Transport. The structure has been successfully installed and tested, improving passenger movement around the station while laying the foundations for future step-free access.
Once completed, the footbridge will connect directly to new station entrances on Fernbrook Road and Springbank Road, forming a key element of a wider programme designed to make the station fully accessible.
The project also includes the installation of four new 16-person lifts, new staircases and a dedicated link passageway between platforms 4 and 5. When the scheme reaches completion, passengers will benefit from step-free access between street level and every platform for the first time in the station's history.
The improvements will particularly benefit disabled passengers, as well as customers travelling with luggage, bicycles, or pushchairs.
Work on the project is progressing ahead of schedule, with completion now anticipated in spring 2027.
Alongside the accessibility enhancements, passengers can expect a range of upgraded station facilities, including new CCTV coverage, public address systems, customer information screens, a ticket vending machine and Oyster card readers.
Environmental improvements also form part of the programme, with plans to restore the adjacent nature reserve through extensive replanting aimed at supporting biodiversity and ecological recovery.
The programme is being managed by Network Rail, with BAM Nuttall Ltd serving as principal contractor. Architectural services are being provided by Fereday Pollard & Partners, while Arcadis is responsible for civil engineering design. McNealy Brown Ltd is delivering the fabrication and installation of the main bridge structure.
Ke'arne Graham, Scheme Project Manager, said:
"Opening the new footbridge is a major milestone for the Hither Green Access for All programme, bringing us closer to step-free access across the station. I thank passengers and the local community for their patience as work continues."
With major structural elements now in place and construction progressing ahead of programme, the project remains on track to deliver a fully accessible station by spring 2027.
Image credit: Network Rail
