Media centre

Friday 5 May 2006

THE RAISING OF FRESHFORD STATION

Region & Route:

| Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

| Wales & Western: Western

| Wales & Western

Network Rail is pleased to announce that rail passengers will now benefit from easier journeys following the completion of works to reduce the distance between the platform and trains at Freshford Station, near Bath.  Robbie Burns, Network Rail’s Western Route Director, said: “We listened to the concerns of the local community and raised Platform 2 by almost 300mm to make it easier for passengers to get on and off the trains.  We have also worked closely with First Great Western to provide the station with new lighting on both platforms and a brand new waiting shelter on Platform 2.” The completion of works were today marked by an unveiling ceremony, attended by local stakeholders and members of the community. Work began in late November 2005 and was completed in April.  Whilst the works were underway, the station remained operational at all times to avoid disruption to the local community.  Andrew Griffiths, First Great Western's General Manager (Central), said: "The new platform at Freshford is a real improvement for our passengers and a good example of how, through partnerships with Network Rail and local stakeholders, we are constantly seeking to improve rail services.” Don Foster, Bath MP, said:  “This is a significant day for the people of Freshford - I am delighted that Network Rail has completed these works to make journeys easier for the local community.”