Refurbishment of a 130-year-old Grade II-listed footbridge at Beverley station in Yorkshire is to start next Tuesday, 30th May.

The canopy of the bridge has been assessed as being in danger of collapsing onto the tracks below, therefore to remove that risk, last September the bridge was closed on safety grounds. As the bridge is a Grade II-listed structure,

Historic England had to give their approval to the repair plans, and that has now been obtained so that the essential work can be carried out. Repairs are due to be finished by November after which the bridge will be reopened to passengers.

The repairs will include strengthening the original cast iron structure and installation of new parapets, surfacing, and stair treads. Following years of wear the wooden canopy will be removed, and the bridge will be repainted in keeping with its rich heritage. At the same time, the train shed and platforms will be renovated to give the station a new lease of life.

While the work is going on, passengers wishing to cross between the station’s two platforms must go via the level crossing on Armstrong Way. Passengers who need assistance should speak to station staff, and all passengers will need to allow extra time to cross from one platform to the other.

Whilst the footbridge is closed, it is essential that passengers only use the level crossing to cross the railway.

Matt Rice, North and East Route Director for Network Rail said: “I’m pleased that work is getting underway to fully restore this historic footbridge at Beverley station. It is an important piece of history that dates back to the 1880s, so it’s vital that we refurbish it sympathetically whilst ensuring it remains safe for passengers.

“I’d like to thank passengers for their patience whilst we push ahead with this project, and I look forward to the bridge opening later in the year.”

Tony Baxter, Regional Director at Northern, said: “I’d like to thank our customers for their patience as this essential work is carried out and advise them to allow extra time when changing platforms at Beverley station.”