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Friday 10 Aug 2018

Feltham residents given glimpse of the future in virtual reality ahead of £23 million station upgrade

Region & Route:

Southern: Wessex

| Southern

Network Rail are investing £23 million to rebuild parts of Feltham station providing longer platforms for new longer trains, new step free access for travellers and a new bridge for cyclists and pedestrians so they can safely cross the railway.

Residents will have the opportunity to experience the new-look station, due to be completed in December 2019, through a high-tech virtual reality headset at a special drop-in session next week. 

The improvements are being delivered in partnership with Hounslow Council and Transport for London (TfL) to reduce the time trains spend on platforms, giving passengers easier journeys, and to create a safer, more accessible station for the community.

The first phase of work will begin in September, with the installation of a second entrance on platform 1, providing step-free access and an improved interchange with local buses.

Lindsey Tien, scheme sponsor for Network Rail, said:

“This project will give Feltham a station fit for the 21^st century, and I’m delighted we are able to offer people a glimpse of the future through virtual reality.

“We encourage anyone interested in this exciting scheme to come along to find out how this £23 million investment will help improve safety and make people’s journeys easier.”

The new pedestrian and cycle bridge will allow Network Rail to remove the existing ramped footbridge and permanently close Feltham West level crossing in March next year.

Feltham West level crossing is the second highest-risk highway crossing on the entire south western rail network and has a history of dangerous deliberate misuse. Its removal will significantly improve safety for those crossing the railway.

Network Rail and contractor’s Osborne have invited local residents to attend the drop-in session at Feltham Station on Wednesday 15 August between 3.30pm and 7pm to explain what work will be taking place to deliver significant improvements at Feltham station and the surrounding area.

Attendees will be able to view their improved facility with the use of a VR headset and speak to the project team to find out more about the project.

Another round of community engagement events will take place in January next year.

ENDS