Network Rail has kicked off construction of a new bridge and lifts at Theale Station which will provide passengers with a fully accessible station.

This project, which is funded through the Department of Transport’s (DfT) ‘Access for All’ scheme, is expected to be completed in winter 2023/24 and will ensure there is step-free access to all of the station’s platforms.

The new footbridge is due to be installed in May 2023, so that the footbridge and lifts can open for public use once the work is complete.

Alongside this upgrade, Great Western Railway (GWR) is working with partners to further develop proposals for increasing car parking capacity, as well as improvements to the forecourt and station access.

During this period, space in the station car park is reduced to allow contractors to safely carry out their work. Parking will continue to be offered on a ‘first come, first served’ basis, but if no space is available, passengers are encouraged to use other car parks near the station, as well as at other nearby stations.

Theale station will remain open to passengers throughout the work and rail services will not be affected. However, separate track renewal work in the Newbury area will affect services from Saturday 18 February until Thursday 2 March, and buses will replace trains.

Passengers are advised to plan ahead and check journeys at nationalrail.co.uk.

Dan Parkes, Network Rail programme manager - capital delivery building & civils, said: 

“We’re delighted to have begun work on the new ‘Access for All’ bridge at Theale Station working with our Supply Chain partner, AMCO Giffen.

“We’ve been busy over the past few months, finalising the detailed design and setting up our worksite. Over the coming months, we’ll be installing the bridge sub structure - consisting of more than 60 deep concrete piles and connecting concrete beams - before turning our attention to installing the steel super structure.

“We would like thank local residents and passengers for their patience and understanding during this time.”

Alok Sharma MP, said: 

“I am delighted that work is finally underway to install a new bridge and lifts at Theale Station. I have been campaigning for better access at Theale Station for nearly 10 years, along with Theale Parish Council, campaign group Theale’s Future and West Berkshire Council. This work will be invaluable for wheelchair users, as well as parents with pushchairs and buggies.”

Tom Butler, GWR station manager for Theale said:

“GWR is passionate about making its trains and stations accessible to all. It is fantastic that this work is now underway, and will help even more people make full use of all the railway has to offer, connecting communities to as they live, work and play.”

Photo: Alok at Theale Station