Work begins on next step for Telford Central footbridge work

Passengers are being advised to allow more time when using Telford Central station as work got under way on the latest stretch of the footbridge project.

When completed, the Department for Transport-funded scheme will also include lifts to both platforms.

The new bridge will span two dual carriageways and a live railway line and will provide a new link between Telford Central station and Telford town centre.

London Midland’s head of regional services, Steve Fisher, said: “The key message is to allow more time to get around the station while the works take place. You may find your normal route to the platform will change.

“This investment in the station with improved accessibility is much welcomed. Over a million passengers use Telford Central station each year and demand is growing at around six per cent.”

Councillor Angela McClements, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for Transport, added: “The new bridge will improve access to the town centre, particularly for disabled users, parents with pushchairs and cyclists. We hope everyone will bear with us while we build this new link and improve access for everyone.”

Traffic management also began on Rampart Way and the A442 at the start of the month.

As well as spanning the railway line, it also crosses two dual carriageways. This means that areas near the bridge, where people are working, will be separated by cones for their protection. However, on both roads one lane in each direction will remain open.

A 40mph limit on short sections in both directions of Rampart Way and the A442 will help keep traffic flowing for the duration of the project.

Site facilities for Balfour Beatty staff will be in place by early November, ready for foundations works to begin.

Pedestrian access will be via temporary ramps while footpaths will remain open with diversions in place as needed.

The new glass-sided bridge will be cheaper to maintain with a path to the town centre that won’t be as steep as the current one.

Wheelchair users, cyclists or people with pushchairs and heavy luggage will also have access the new bridge via new lifts.

This will not only make the journey from the railway station easier but also a better experience with improved lighting and protection from the weather.

See telford.gov.uk/telford footbridge for more details.