Hampden Park railway station footbridge lifted back into place following refurbishment

The bridge span was reinstalled on Sunday, April 5, after being removed by crane in February.

It had been taken away while ‘specialist refurbishment’ to the bridge was carried out. During this time, train passengers were unable to cross over between platforms, having to use an alternative walking route, at street level, via the nearby level crossing on Brassey Avenue/Mountfield Avenue and Station Approach.

However, the footbridge will remain closed before passengers are able to use it again with Southern Rail stating the installation of electrical equipment and a series of final safety checks will take place before opening in Mid-April.

Ahead of the refurbishment works, a spokesperson for Network Rail said: “The existing paint system has reached the end of its working life, so it’s being fully renewed with a modern protective coating designed to last at least 15 years.

"This helps protect the steel structure from weather damage and reduces the need for future repairs.

“Contractors will be replacing the stairs and decking with new, more durable materials that offer better slip resistance and are designed to last up to 25 years.

“At the same time, strengthening work is being carried out to ensure the bridge can safely handle expected passenger use.

“New handrails and safety mesh will be installed to improve protection and prevent objects from falling onto the tracks below.

“Finally, there will be improvements in accessibility through new tactile paving at the top of the footbridge and on the platforms, helping customers with visual impairments navigate the station more confidently.”

Tim Leighton, Sussex Route Infrastructure Director for Network Rail said: “The bridge at Hampden Park needs some TLC to strengthen and refurbish it, keeping it safe for years to come.

"I’d like to thank passengers for their patience while we complete this vital work.”