Network Rail has issued an update on its work to install a new, accessible bridge at Garforth station, east of Leeds.

As announced last May, Network Rail’s engineers have been working to install the country’s first ‘Beacon’ bridge at the station, which will facilitate step-free access between its two platforms for the first time.

Working at night, engineers used a crane to move the deck into place, connecting the two lift shafts that had already been built.

They also installed the additional link span, which connects the station to Aberford Road, which maintains the existing entrance to platform 1.

The ‘Beacon’ bridge gets its name from the design of the lift shafts. Garforth’s Beacon bridge is the first in the UK. The government’s Access for All scheme has funded the six-million-pound project.

Network Rail hopes to be able to open the footbridge to the public by the end of June this year, but the lifts will not open until August, as work to make them operational can only start once the temporary footbridge has been removed.

While the work continues, alternative routes between the platforms are available, and are clearly signposted.

Garforth station is around seven miles east of Leeds and sixteen miles south-west of York, and is served by Northern and TransPennine Express.

Other recent improvements at Garforth station include new information signs and the provision of water for dogs.

“This is a major milestone for Garforth’s ‘Beacon’ bridge project and brings easy, step-free access closer to reality for the station’s passengers.

“This bridge is a UK first and we have, naturally, run into some challenges along the way, but our teams have worked hard to overcome those. The installation of the bridge deck is a huge achievement for the project and one I am very proud of.

“We want to thank passengers and local residents for their continued patience while work progresses.”

Chris Wright, Senior Sponsor for Network Rail’s North & East route