Media centre

Thursday 14 Mar 2013

Burry Port Station footbridge to be refurbished

Region & Route:

| Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

| Wales & Western

Network Rail has agreed to refurbish the footbridge at Burry Port Station following talks with the local community.

The company has told local MP Nia Griffith that it will repaint and refurbish the 130-year-old footbridge in the centre of the station. The decision follows extensive consultation with the local community, which wanted the existing footbridge to stay.

After listening to their views, Network Rail reviewed its maintenance programme and was able to fully fund repairs and repainting of the footbridge. Work will take place during this calendar year.

Announcing the plans, Mark Langman, Network Rail’s Wales route managing director, said: “We had already agreed to find a solution as we understand the importance of the structure to the local community.

“I have reviewed our maintenance programme and Network Rail is now able to commit to fully funding the repair and repainting of the bridge. The work will extend the life-span of the footbridge for many years to come and will enable passengers to cross to platforms in the centre of the station.

“The work programme will also include the provision of a light-emitting diode (LED) handrail as well as extra lighting of the structure to improve visibility and safety for passengers.”

Nia Griffith said: “I am absolutely delighted that, despite difficult economic times, Network Rail have been able to make funding available to repair and repaint the footbridge, with the added bonus of discreet LED lighting to help show off this historic feature. I know that this outcome will be very much welcomed by residents in Burry Port who are very proud of their heritage.”