Network Rail, along with its contractor AmcoGiffen, is constructing the ‘Beacon’ bridge at Garforth station which will soon have step-free access to platforms.
Garforth station is the first in the country where the “Beacon” bridge concept is being built in full.
With work finishing on the staircases and footbridge this week, it’s now open for passengers to use. However, work is continuing on construction of two new lifts.
The multi-million-pound project began in May 2023 and NetworkRail expects the lifts to open to passengers this autumn.
The Government’s ‘Access for All‘ station accessibility scheme has funded the multi-million-pound project.
In 2018, the ‘Beacon bridge’ was one of three pilot designs developed as a modern approach to bridge accessibility and security.
Its side panels feature toughened glass which not only provides maximum strength but also transparency, so that bridge users can see any other people that are using the bridge or stairs.
This is because some passengers feel unsafe in enclosed spaces, especially while travelling alone and at night.
Network Rail has developed three new footbridge designs that blend forward-thinking architecture with creative engineering.
As they gradually replace the current footbridge design in the years ahead, Network Rail plan to focus on quality, safety aesthetics and ease of use.
The “Beacon” is one of these designs. There is also the “Ribbon” (an arched footbridge with an elegant floating canopy) and the “Frame”, a radical expression of minimalism.
Completing the installation of the first ‘Beacon’ bridge is a significant achievement in the project and we are now one step closer to making Garforth station fully accessible for passengers.
We are committed to providing a station which makes travelling easier for everyone, and we would like to thank passengers and residents for their continued patience and understanding as we head towards the culmination of the project.
Anna Weeks, principal programme sponsor for Network Rail’s North and East route
We are proud to celebrate the milestone opening of the new footbridge as part of the ongoing station accessibility improvement project. This development marks a considerable step forward in providing an inclusive and accessible travel experience for all passengers.
Pete Laws, framework director for AmcoGiffen
Responses
Now i have seen stupidity pushed to the limit, which half arsed fool designs a bridge over a railway or road for that matter with glass panels, hasn’t the designer seen what happens to bus shelters with glass panels, smashed almost before the the contractors are off site, again and again, not too bad at road level but a disaster 15mts up. Hasn’t the last 150 years of railway structure design taught these jerks anything, often the old designs are best for a reason
Why designs for bridges but not underpasses?
Interesting that my PTE wanted glass doors, or at least top half glass, for reasons of passenger safety at lifts and every case was a fight with NkR who would default to “no can do”. Those were AfA schemes in the 2000s and 2010s.