Network Rail has installed the main footbridge span connecting the two platforms at Bexley railway station, the latest stage in making both platforms accessible without steps.

Work to improve accessibility at Bexley station began in February 2023.

Lifts and staircases have already been installed, and now the bridge span has been moved into place by a crane. Further work on improving accessibility includes widening platform one to accommodate the lift, and the installation of new CCTV cameras.

Bexley station is in London’s Zone 6 and is served by Southeastern.

Network Rail expects to complete the £6m programme of work in late spring next year, and promises that accessing the station will then be easier for passengers with mobility impairments or travelling with luggage, children or bicycles, as there will be step-free access to all platforms.

The Department of Transport’s (DfT) ‘Access for All‘ scheme provided funding for the work. The scheme started in 2006 to address the barriers encountered by disabled passengers and those with heavy luggage or pushchairs.

Funds are spent on creating a route from the station entrance to the platforms that are accessible and free of obstacles. In most funded projects, this includes installing lifts or ramps, together with other work to smarten up the route.

Hodan Hassan, Network Rail’s commercial scheme sponsor, said: “We’re always trying to do more for our passengers and we’re delighted to have reached this major milestone as part of the ‘Access for All’ scheme at Bexley station, which will provide step-free access to both platforms.

“Further follow up work will take place on 24 September where we’ll be removing the scaffolding around the staircases and lift shafts and work will continue through to early December when we’ll resurface platforms one and two.

“I’d like to thank passengers for their patience and understanding while we are making these important improvements to the accessibility of the station and I look forward to seeing the completion of this work in late Spring which will provide passengers with a fully accessible station.”