Chippenham train station improvement scheme completed

The project to bring a third lift into use at Chippenham train station, on the north side of the platforms, began in January.

Great Western Railway, who worked alongside Network Rail on the renovation scheme, officially opened the station’s new lift on July 3 alongside representatives from Wiltshire Council and MP Michelle Donelan.

For much of this time the station’s pedestrian footbridge, a public right of way from Station Hill and Cocklebury Road to Union Road and Old Road, was closed.

The bridge reopened in May and engineers have since been working to bring the lift, which operated in test mode for two weeks, into use.

Network Rail’s sponsor for the project, Alina Wolfe, said the improvements will increase the station’s accessibility for users.

The rotated footbridge (Image: Newsquest)

She said: “It’s fantastic to see that Chippenham station is now fully accessible from both sides, with the new orientation of the footbridge stairs providing safer pedestrian access and an improved walking route for the public over the railway line.

“This is a brilliant example of partnership working across multiple organisations to improve access to the railway for our passengers and I’d like to thank everyone involved for their hard work in making this happen.

“I’d also like to thank local residents and passengers for their patience while this work was carried out and hope that they’re able to enjoy the benefits of a fully-accessible station for years to come.”

The project saw the footbridge stairs turned to allow the scheme to be implemented, while step-free access to both platforms is now provided by a lift at the Union Road car park.

New disabled car parking spaces and more cycle parking facilities have also been installed in the north side car park over the last few months.

The new disabled parking spaces (Image: Newsquest)

The latest round of works complements a total package of £1.98 million worth of investment in the station.

Wiltshire Council have previously completed improvements to both pedestrian and cyclist access to the railway.

MP for Chippenham, Michelle Donelan, added: “The completion of this £1 million accessibility scheme at Chippenham station is fantastic news for residents and visitors alike, meaning all members of our community, including those with mobility challenges, can easily access the station and enjoy the convenience of step-free access.”