Media centre

Thursday 9 May 2013

New footbridge to be built in Fishbourne

Region & Route:

| Southern

Work has started on a new footbridge which will replace a high-risk footpath level crossing in Sussex.

The new bridge in Fishbourne will link Fishbourne Road East and Westgate and is part of Network Rail’s ongoing work to improve safety at level crossings.

In recent years there have been a number of incidents at the crossing including three fatalities, 22 near misses with trains, nine reports of misuse and 18 acts of vandalism.

The footbridge will provide step-free access across the railway and be built on the site of the existing crossing.

Tim Robinson, Network Rail’s route managing director for Sussex, said: “Network Rail is committed to improving safety when crossing the railway and will close level crossings and replace them with bridges where ever possible. This crossing has a history of incidents and misuse. We have worked with the local authority and engaged with local people to close it and the new bridge will make crossing the railway in Fishbourne safer for thousands of people every year.”

The main section of the bridge will be enclosed to prevent neighbouring residential properties being overlooked and to minimise the risk of vandalism.

Work started at the end of April and the bridge is due to open in August 2013. The majority of the work will take place during the day but there will be some unavoidable work which will have to take place over night when trains are not running. Local residents will be written to in advance to give warning of the possible disruption.

For further information contact Network Rail on 0845 114141.