Network Rail has today (Tuesday, 14 January) announced that £600,000 will be invested at Beverley railway station to improve passenger experience and enhance the look and feel of the station.
The significant investment will be used to fully refurbish the footbridge at the station, including renewing both the steps and the walkway on the structure, as well as strengthening the bridge and repairing any corrosion which is present. Network Rail workers will also paint the bridge to help protect it from future wear and tear.
This is a significant scheme and Network Rail is currently working on detailed plans for the project. As the bridge is listed, Network Rail is working with East Riding of Yorkshire Council to secure permission to upgrade the bridge and make sure the work is carried out in a way which preserves the heritage of the bridge.
Work is expected to begin on site in early 2022 and complete later the same year. Whilst the work takes place, passengers will still be able to access both platforms via a temporary footbridge.
Matt Rice, Route Director for Network Rail’s North and East Route, said:
“We are delighted to announce this much needed investment at Beverley station which will greatly improve the appearance of the station and provide a more pleasant experience for users of the bridge.
“Beverley station is a listed building, so it is really important that this work is carried out in a way which will preserve the heritage for years to come.
“We look forward to beginning work and to passengers feeling the benefit once complete.”
Graham Stuart, MP for Beverley and Holderness, said:
“Last year, I was contacted by constituents travelling from Beverley railway station regarding the condition of the footbridge. As a user of train services to and from Beverley I shared their concerns about the sad state of the station bridge.
“I contacted Network Rail who are responsible for the overall structure and repair of the bridge and was pleased to hear that complete refurbishment and maintenance are now being planned. Together with the additional direct services to London now being run out of Beverley it is welcome news that this renewal of this grade 2 listed footbridge will make the train station an even more attractive place to start your journey.”
Councillor Chris Matthews, portfolio holder for strategic management at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said:
“I am delighted that Network Rail is able to invest in this much needed work at Beverley railway station, which will significantly improve its appearance and attractiveness for rail passengers, while at the same time preserving its unique heritage. We are happy to encourage as many people as possible to use the trains in this area and I am confident that this work will help to achieve just that.”