“Step Free” Lift - Leigh-on-Sea

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A CONTRACT has been awarded to a company to tackle access issues at Chalkwell station and make it “step free” for the first time in its history.

A CONTRACT has been awarded to a company to tackle access issues at Chalkwell station and make it “step free” for the first time in its history.

Currently, the c2c-operated station can be inaccessible to some, with 40 steep steps leading down to platform level.

Network Rail has revealed that a firm called Octavius will carry out the long-awaited works, after the Department of Transport funded the accessibility improvements.

The installation of the “Access for All” lift, funded by the Department of Transport, has been postponed four times, causing consternation for residents faced with 40 steep steps to get to platform level.

Work on the lift was originally slated to begin in 2022, with Chalkwell station the only one on the c2c line that is not “access-friendly”.

The scheme will finally see the installation of two new lifts, a modern footbridge, and stairs to facilitate movement between street and platform level. A goods lift shaft at the back of the station building, which has not been in operation for more than 40 years, will also be removed to make space for the new lift.

Katie Frost, network rails route director for Anglia, said: “We’re committed to making our railway more inclusive and better connected for the communities we serve.

“Improving station access will help more people travel independently and with confidence and working with our partners, we are now taking an important step towards delivering these benefits at Chalkwell.”

Preparatory works are expected to start this summer, which will include the construction of a temporary footbridge and stairs to allow the old footbridge to be removed this autumn.

Donna Thorpe, asset director at c2c, said: “These works mark a historic stage in the improvement of the Chalkwell station which when complete, will hugely benefit the local community and all those using the c2c rail service.

“We recognise that while these take place, there will be unavoidable changes to our customers’ experience of the station. To ensure these changes are as minimal as possible, we will continue to work closely with Network Rail, Octavius Infrastructure Ltd and Southend City Council.”

Isayas Tecleberhan, Octavius Infrastructure Framework director, said: “We’re proud to have been awarded the Access for All works at Chalkwell Station and would like to thank Network Rail for the opportunity to continue our successful partnership.

“Delivering step-free access through the installation of lifts and a new footbridge will make a meaningful difference to passengers, and we look forward to working collaboratively to deliver this important scheme safely, efficiently, and to the highest standard.”

This announcement follows news that the nearby ramp connecting the station to the beach was closed in March ahead of a proposed demolition. This was due to safety concerns over the 115-year-old bridge.

At a public meeting, Southend Council and Network Rail revealed demolition is not scheduled until September and temporary solutions are being put in place.

Picture: The station Pic Network Rail.

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