Theale Station gets new footbridge in project 'landmark'

The new footbridge being installed at Theale station

A new footbridge has been installed at a train station as part of renovation works to make it completely accessible.

Theale station in west Berkshire is also set to get new lifts to ensure each platform has step-free access, as part of the Department for Transport's Access for All scheme.

Great Western Railway (GWR) station manager Tom Butler called the bridge's completion a "significant milestone".

The upgrade works are expected to be completed in spring 2024.

They are part of a redevelopment that began in 2013 and was originally expected to be finished by February 2014.

Network Rail explained the delay in 2018 by saying it was due to an office having to be moved by GWR, because its original position could not be accessed safely during its construction work.

Project manager Ben Krawiec said the construction of the footbridge was a "landmark" for a "fantastic project".

Network Rail's lead portfolio manager Deborah Elliott said it was "great to have the new footbridge" but added there was still "hard work" needed to complete the project.

Lift experts Stannah need to carry out further testing to ensure the new lifts are safe for passengers, and electrical work also needs to take place.

Ms Elliott apologised for "disruption" caused by the improvements.

"Once this is complete, Theale station will be safer and easier to use than ever before," she added.

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