Monday 21 Jun 2010

STATION IMPROVEMENTS PLANNED FOR WANDSWORTH TOWN

Region & Route:
| Southern: Wessex
| Southern

Plans have been submitted for a new entrance and ticket office at Wandsworth Town which will bring long-lasting improvements for the thousands of passengers who use the station every day.

The project, which is being funded through the national stations improvement programme with a contribution from Wandsworth Borough Council, will include a Disability Discrimination Act compliant ticket desk window, making it easier for passengers with reduced mobility to use the station, plus the installation of ticket vending machines, automatic doors and automated ticket gates.

Richard O’Brien, Network Rail’s route director for Wessex, said: “Wandsworth Town station is the start or end for over 2.5m train journeys every year.  The proposed improvements will make a real difference to the overall journey experience for these passengers.”

Malcolm Page, estates development manager for South West Trains, added: "We welcome the proposed changes and investment planned for this busy station. The planned programme of improvements will make a significant difference to passengers using the station."

Wandsworth Council's transport spokesman Cllr Ravi Govindia said: "We welcome the news that the planning application has now been formally submitted. We are committed to working closely with Network Rail and the train operating companies to deliver better rail journeys for our residents."

Subject to the planning permission being granted and all other arrangements being finalised, it is hoped the work will start later in 2010.

Notes to editors

The national stations improvement programme (NSIP) is a £150m Department for Transport backed rail industry scheme to enhance150 medium sized stations in England and Wales.  Typically the initiative responds to the key needs of passengers, to provide safe, secure and comfortable stations, and provide suitable information.

Approximate funding breakdown:

- National stations improvement programme - £990k
- Wandsworth borough council - £250k

Contact information

Passengers / community members
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03457 11 41 41

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southeastroutecomms@networkrail.co.uk

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