Bridge and lifts set to boost Fylde coast railway station

Members of Network Rails Orange Team lift the new footbridge into place at Kirkham station which connects to the new platform being built there

The work is being carried out by Network Rail alongside the electrification of the line from Blackpool to Preston and new signalling.

A new 12 tonne bridge was lifted into place at the station which is to become “step free” for the first time.

The improvements have been welcomed by Fylde’s MP Mark Menzies and Fylde councillor Liz Oades.

Mark Menzies said: “I am delighted to see Kirkham and Wesham Station improved to this extent, making it accessible for all.

“From the moment I was elected I called for these changes and I’m glad all of the meetings over the years have seen the project come to fruition. For too long there was a wide section of the community unable to use it.

“And I’m excited about the opportunities the new facilities now open up for improved train services, including direct trains to London.”

Coun Oades said: ““I am thrilled and excited to see the improvements to the station coming to a conclusion, after very many years of campaigning for a lift to be installed at the station it will be wonderful for local people to see two lifts coming in at the same time.

The footbridge awaiting installation at Kirkham and Wesham station while this week's windy weather delayed operations.

"I am also hopeful that we will see more services coming through Kirkham and Wesham and hope that this will bring greater economic development and future prosperity for the towns.

"If we can achieve better car parking for commuters in the future that will be the icing on the cake and the council and Network Rail are working to achieve this.”

Chris Montgomery, major project director for Network Rail, said: "Work is progressing well to upgrade Kirkham and Wesham station. The installation of the new footbridge is an exciting milestone for the project and means that passengers in the local area are one step closer to a better railway.

“The upgrade of Blackpool’s railway forms a key part the Great North Rail Project and will help to transform train journeys for passengers in the north.”

Sharon Keith, regional director for trains operator Northern, said: “It’s great to see another milestone reached in the transformation of the railway between Blackpool and Preston.

“The work being carried out as part of the Great North Rail Project will pave the way for our own modernisation programme which will see the introduction of brand new and revamped trains as well as improved stations and more services.”