In order to improve the accessibility at Chalkwell station, Octavius has been given a contract by Network Rail.

They will be working with Southend City Council and c2c to make the station step-free with two new lifts so that all passengers can easily use the platforms.

The project is part of the Department for Transport’s ‘Access for All’ scheme.

During the installation of the lifts, the station will also be receiving a new footbridge and stairs, with the existing footbridge and old goods lift removed, the new lifts can be installed.

Work in preparation for this project is expected to start over the summer and will see a temporary footbridge installed so that work can begin in Autumn.

The work is aiming to be completed by the end of 2026, when everyone can enjoy access to the station.

There will be a public drop-in event, which will provide further information on the project, and people can ask questions and share any concerns. The date for this event is not yet set, but it will be soon.

“We’re committed to making our railway more inclusive and better connected for the communities we serve. Improving station access will help more people travel independently and with confidence and working with our partners, we’re now taking an important step toward delivering these benefits at Chalkwell.” 

Katie Frost, Network Rail’s route director for Anglia