Hither Green Station Accessibility Overhaul

Hither Green station is undergoing a significant transformation aimed at revolutionising passenger accessibility. This ambitious project, managed by Network Rail and executed by BAM Nuttall Ltd., is set to provide step-free access to all platforms, a crucial enhancement for passengers with mobility needs. The station, a vital hub for Southeastern services on the South Eastern Main Line, handles approximately three million entries and exits annually, making these accessibility improvements a welcome development for a vast number of travellers.

Currently, passengers with accessibility requirements face considerable inconvenience when needing to interchange at Hither Green. They are often forced to travel into central London to change trains, only to return to the southeast, or rely on bus or taxi services to reach alternative accessible stations like Lewisham. This new project will directly address these issues, drastically reducing travel time and the overall hassle for these passengers.

The core of the upgrade involves the installation of a new, linear footbridge spanning all six platforms. This will be complemented by four new 16-person lifts and associated staircases, ensuring a seamless and accessible journey throughout the station. Furthermore, two new accessible station entrances are being created at Fernbrook Road and Springbank Road, providing a fully accessible route from the street level to the platforms.

Project Timeline and Key Milestones

The comprehensive project began with enabling works in November 2024, which included de-vegetation and tree removal to prepare for the new structures. Ground surveys and the diversion of existing railway assets commenced in January 2025, paving the way for the main construction phase. Piling for the new structures started in early March 2025, followed by the construction of foundations for the new footbridge in Spring 2025. The installation of the steelwork for the footbridge is anticipated to begin in Autumn 2025, with the lifts expected to be operational for passengers by Autumn 2027. This timeline indicates a significant undertaking that will span several years, with the primary goal of delivering a vastly improved and accessible station.

What Works Are Being Undertaken?

The scope of the works is extensive and designed to create a truly accessible environment:

• Installation of a new linear footbridge across all platforms.
• Installation of four new lifts, catering to various platform access needs.
• Construction of two new accessible station entrances on Fernbrook Road and Springbank Road.
• Widening of platform 1 and platform 6 to improve passenger flow.
• Creation of a new link passageway connecting platforms 4 and 5.
• Installation of modern CCTV, public announcement (PA) systems, and customer information screens (CIS) for enhanced passenger experience and safety.
• Extensive landscaping, replanting, and reinstatement of the nature reserve, demonstrating a commitment to environmental considerations.

Impact on Local Roads and Access

The construction process necessitates some temporary disruptions to local road access. Both Springbank Road and Fernbrook Road will experience closures to facilitate the installation of sheet piles, which are crucial for retaining the embankment during the creation of the new entrances. The indicative road closure periods are as follows:

Springbank Road: Monday 17 February 2025 to July 2025.
Fernbrook Road: May 2025 to October 2025.

During these closures, new temporary pedestrian road crossings will be implemented at either end of the works to ensure continued pedestrian access. TfL bus diversions have been agreed upon and will be put into effect. It is important to note that these dates are subject to change, and updates will be provided. The road closures are essential for creating a safe working zone for the embankment piling operations. Consequently, all parking bays within the designated closure areas will be suspended for the duration of the works. Furthermore, road closures will be required on specific weekends for lifting operations involving cranes. Advanced notification will be published closer to the time, including details of diversion routes.

Minimising Disruption

Network Rail and BAM Nuttall Ltd. are committed to minimising disruption to the local community and passengers. The majority of the work will be conducted during daytime hours, Monday to Friday, between 07:30 and 18:00, and is not expected to affect train services. However, due to the nature of construction, some overnight or weekend working may be unavoidable. Any such work will be scheduled during existing planned maintenance closures of the railway to further reduce impact. Piling operations can generate noise and vibration, and while efforts will be made to minimise this, some disturbance may be unavoidable. The project team is briefed on working responsibly and with consideration for the surrounding environment and residents.

Weekend Line Closures

To facilitate specific aspects of the construction, several weekend line closures are planned. These are crucial for carrying out works safely and efficiently. The initial planned closures include:

• 01:25 Sunday 16 March 2025 to 02:50 Monday 17 March 2025
• 01:25 Sunday 13 April 2025 to 02:50 Monday 14 April 2025
• 01:25 Saturday 24 May 2025 to 02:50 Tuesday 27 May 2025 (May Bank Holiday)
• 01:25 Sunday 29 June 2025 to 02:50 Monday 30 June 2025

Further line closures will be required beyond these dates, and passengers will be kept informed. Rail replacement bus services will operate as usual from Springbank Road during these closures.

Why is This Work Necessary?

The necessity of these upgrades stems from the station's role as a key interchange and the current limitations in accessibility. The station's significant passenger numbers highlight the importance of providing an inclusive travel experience. The project aligns with the Department for Transport’s (DfT) nationwide Railway Access for All (AfA) strategy, which aims to improve accessibility across the rail network. By removing the current barriers, Hither Green station will become a more inclusive and efficient hub for all passengers, particularly those with mobility challenges, offering a direct and accessible route that was previously unavailable.

Check Before You Travel

Passengers are advised to check their journey details before travelling, especially during periods of planned road or rail closures. Information will be made available through various channels to help passengers plan their journeys effectively. Assistance is available for those who require it; passengers can speak to station staff or contact the Assisted Travel team on 0800 783 4524.

Comparative Table: Current vs. Future Accessibility

| Feature | Current Situation | Future Accessibility (Autumn 2027) | |-------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Platform Access | Limited step-free access; requires travel to central London or taxi/bus to Lewisham. | Full step-free access to all platforms via new lifts and accessible entrances. | | Station Entrances | Existing entrances, potentially with stairs. | Two new accessible entrances at Fernbrook Road and Springbank Road, alongside existing accessible routes. | | Interchanges | Inconvenient for passengers with accessibility needs, requiring significant detours. | Seamless and convenient interchanges, eliminating the need for long detours or alternative transport methods. | | Passenger Flow | May be improved with platform widening. | Enhanced passenger flow due to platform widening and new link passageway. | | Information | Standard information systems. | Upgraded CCTV, PA systems, and CIS for improved passenger information and safety. |

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: When will the Hither Green station accessibility upgrades be completed?
A1: The project is expected to be completed in Autumn 2027.

Q2: Will there be any road closures during the construction?
A2: Yes, Springbank Road and Fernbrook Road will have temporary closures to facilitate piling works. Specific dates and diversion routes will be communicated.

Q3: How will I get to the station if my usual route is closed?
A3: Temporary pedestrian crossings and agreed TfL bus diversions will be in place. Please check for specific signage and updates.

Q4: Will train services be affected?
A4: Most work will occur during daytime hours and will not affect train services. Some weekend line closures are planned, with rail replacement buses operating.

Q5: Who is managing this project?
A5: The project is managed by Network Rail, with construction delivered by BAM Nuttall Ltd.

Q6: How can I get more information or provide feedback?
A6: You can email [email protected], call the National Helpline on 03457 11 41 41 quoting the project, visit the Network Rail contact us page, or follow @NetworkRailSE on X.

This extensive upgrade at Hither Green station represents a significant step forward in making rail travel more accessible and inclusive for everyone in the South East London and Kent regions. The commitment to providing step-free access will undoubtedly transform the travel experience for countless passengers.

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