New footbridge major milestone for rail route

The pre-built footbridge was placed above the tracks at the new Kings Heath Station

Construction on a new train station in Birmingham has made significant progress.

A new pedestrian footbridge has been installed at Kings Heath railway station as part of a multi-million pound development which will see three new stations on the Camp Hill Line.

The footbridge, which was installed above the tracks, will allow future rail passengers to change platforms at Kings Heath.

The project will also see new stations built at Moseley Village and Pineapple Road, restoring passenger rail services to the line for the first time since the Second World War.

The operation took place overnight on 21 and 22 June, during which the pre-fabricated footbridge was carefully lifted into place.

The project is being delivered by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) and the West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE).

Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, said the stations will offer a fast, reliable and affordable alternative to the "often-slow moving traffic on the Alcester Road".

He said: "They will transform the daily commute to work or college for thousands of local people.

"The return of rail services will also encourage more people to go and experience the vibrancy of Moseley, Kings Heath and Stirchley, directly boosting trade for local businesses and fostering community and economic growth.

"That's why we are working around the clock to get these stations finished and open to the public."

Anne Shaw, executive director of TfWM, said the footbridge installation is one step closer to the stations becoming a "game-changer" for local communities.

The WMCA said journey times into Birmingham New Street are expected to be around 10-15 minutes.

It added that work on the new drop-off area outside Moseley Village Station will involve some changes to the road layout in St Mary's Row.

Work on this is due to start in mid-July.