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Monday 12 Jan 2026

Multi‑million‑pound bridge replacement successfully completed in Bedfordshire

Region & Route:

Eastern

| Eastern: East Midlands

Network Rail has successfully installed a new footbridge as part of a £7.9 million project to improve safety and long‑term reliability at Harlington station.

The modern structure – designed to last for 120 years – replaces the previous ageing bridge, providing an upgraded, more durable connection improving the experience for station users while also making future maintenance more cost-effective and efficient.

The new bridge was lifted into place over Christmas when trains were not running, meaning there was no disruption for passengers. A 300-tonne crane with 40-metre boom lifted into place new bridge components weighing as much as 9.1 tonnes.

The installation is a key part of the station investment project, which also includes the renewal of platform surfaces, tactile paving and yellow lines.

Shak Munshi, project manager for Network Rail, said:

“We’re delighted to have successfully installed the new footbridge at Harlington. This project represents a significant investment in modern, reliable infrastructure that will improve safety and create a better experience for everyone who uses the station. We thank residents for their patience while this work was carried out.”

Jenny Saunders, Thameslink customer services director, said:

“We’re really pleased the project at Harlington is making such good progress. We look forward to the opening of the new footbridge, after which the car park will once again become fully available.“

The project is set to be completed in spring 2026. Part of Harlington station's car park remains closed to accommodate construction facilities.