OREANDA-NEWS. Members of the Network Rail team will be on hand to answer questions and update residents on the proposed changes between 3pm and 8pm at Godalming station.  There is no need for local residents to book a place and all are welcome.

Funded by the government’s Access for All programme the 3.1m pounds investment plans for the station will include:

  • Construction of a new fully enclosed footbridge
  • Construction of two 16-person fully accessible lifts to enable step free access between platforms
  • Relocation and replacement of the existing cycle shelters with additional capacity
  • Canopy extensions to provide a weather protected route between the new footbridge structure and existing canopies

Network Rail is also investing more than 300k pounds to resurface platforms, which will provide tactile paving for the extent of both platforms and improve the stepping distance between platform and train.

When all the works have been completed passengers will benefit from a significantly improved station with accessible facilities.

Rail Minister Claire Perry said: "We’re investing record amounts in Britain’s railways as part of our long-term economic plan, and improving accessibility at stations through our Access for All fund is an important part of that. 

“The work at Godalming will make journeys better for customers who are disabled or have limited mobility, as well as making a real difference to those with heavy luggage or buggies, and I am glad that progress is being made.”

Jon Ratcliffe, senior commercial scheme sponsor at Network Rail, said: “Access for All is a significant investment, which helps to make using the railway even easier for the millions of passengers, who travel by train every year. Godalming station will have step-free access for the first time and the new bridge and lifts will be a valuable addition to the station’s facilities.”

Arthur Pretorius, customer service director for South West Trains, said: “More than two thirds of South West Trains passengers travel through fully accessible stations but we know there is much more we can do.

“We are looking forward to work starting at Godalming but if passengers have any questions in the meantime, I would urge them to attend the drop in session or get in touch.”