Project Overview
The project at St Erth Train Station involves the installation of a new footbridge and lifts to enhance accessibility and improve passenger experience. This project includes the construction of a modern footbridge and the installation of lifts to provide seamless access between platforms.
Project Details
- Location: St Erth Train Station, Cornwall, United Kingdom
- Client: BAM
- Project Duration: April 2024 to Feb 2025
- Scope of Work:
- Construction of a new footbridge connecting all platforms.
- Installation of lifts to provide accessible routes for passengers with reduced mobility.
- Compliance with all relevant safety standards and regulations.
- Regular inspections and maintenance of the footbridge and lifts throughout the project duration.
Equipment and Materials
- Footbridge Structure: High-quality materials to ensure durability and safety.
- Lifts: Modern, reliable lifts to enhance accessibility.
- Scaffolding: Plettac Contur system to support various other construction activities. Erected with a full pedestrian staircase.
Key Considerations
- Safety: Ensuring the safety of workers and passengers is paramount. All construction activities will be regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards.
- Accessibility: The new footbridge and lifts will significantly improve accessibility for all passengers, including those with reduced mobility.
- Quality: High-quality materials and equipment will be used to ensure the longevity and reliability of the footbridge and lifts.
Challenges and Mitigations
- Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions may impact construction activities. Contingency plans will be in place to address weather-related delays.
- Passenger Movement: Measures will be taken to minimize disruption to passengers, including clear signage and safe access routes.
Additional Information
- Historical Significance: The new footbridge will bring step-free access to the Grade II listed station for the first time since it was built in 1852.
- Relocation of Existing Footbridge: The current footbridge will be carefully dismantled and rebuilt at Cranmore station on the East Somerset Railway.
- Government Support: This project is part of the Government’s Access for All scheme, aimed at improving accessibility at stations across the country.
- Local Impact: The project supports Network Rail’s investment in the iconic St Ives branch line, which carries a million passengers a year, supporting tourism and businesses in the area.
- Recent Milestone: The project reached a major milestone with the successful installation of two lift shafts, weighing 12 and 10 tonnes each, lifted into place by a 350-tonne crane. Two steel supports for the footbridge were also installed.
- Enhanced Accessibility: The improvements will deliver a major accessibility boost, including the installation of tactile paving on all platforms to aid passengers with visual impairments. This project is part of Network Rail’s ongoing investment in West Cornwall, which has included significant track upgrades and platform extensions.