Network Rail has updated its plans for new accessible footbridges in both Pensarn and Prestatyn, North Wales.
The designs have been modified to take on board feedback from drop-in sessions with residents as well as engagement with other community bodies.
Network Rail is working in partnership with Transport for Wales on their Network North Wales project to increase passenger services along the North Wales Coast by 50% as part of the Welsh Government's £800 million investment in a new train fleet.
To increase the number of services safely, Network Rail needs to close four level crossings (two in Pensarn and two in Prestatyn) to protect the public from the added risks.
In Pensarn, the revised proposal features a single-ramped footbridge connecting Ty Gwyn and Pen Uchaf level crossings. Responding to community concerns, the bridge's design has been modified to reduce its height and visual impact, ensuring it blends in with the surrounding coastal landscape.
The updated plans also include provisions for active travel, with the bridge designed to integrate seamlessly into the local walking and cycling network.
For Prestatyn, an entirely new design for an accessible footbridge next to Bridge Road has been introduced. This design replaces previous concepts and reflects local preferences, striking a balance between safety and community aesthetics.
The revised footbridge mirrors the height of the existing road bridge, aiming to minimise construction impact while making sure there is continued accessibility to the Morfa area.
Both locations have high-risk level crossings due to poor visibility and frequent use by vulnerable groups such as children, cyclists and dog walkers. These crossings will need to be closed or managed differently ahead of the uplift to the timetable in May 2026. Before the new bridges are built, temporary crossing solutions are being considered to maintain connectivity for residents until the new options are in place.
“These projects are a significant step forward in improving transport service in North Wales,”
said Emma Osborn, Passenger Strategy Director for Network Rail (Wales and Borders). “Not only do they enhance connectivity and support the region’s growth, but they also prioritise the safety of our communities, which is paramount. We are dedicated to delivering these improvements with minimal disruption and maximum benefit to local residents.”
Lee Robinson, TfW’s Executive Director for Regional Transport and Integration said: “The closure of these crossings provides the opportunity to increase frequency and capacity for customers across North Wales, as well as reducing the risk of incidents at level crossings. Our ambition to deliver a fully integrated transport network - one network, one timetable, one ticket - is at the heart of these changes and we welcome the continued work with our partners at Network Rail to find suitable and safe local solutions.”
The Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said: "I welcome the decision to put community voices at the heart of transport infrastructure decisions that affect people's daily lives. These improvements will enable the delivery of the 50% increase in services on the North Wales Main Line as a key element of our Network North Wales vision while keeping residents safe and maintaining local connectivity. We are committed to ensuring better, accessible transport connections that are vital for connecting communities, supporting local economies and helping people access employment and services across North Wales.”
Image credit: Network Rail
