WORK on a derailed £4million overhaul of a train station could be about to get back on track after financial complications during the pandemic left the site “abandoned”.
In 2020, Greater Anglia had plans approved to demolish the main building at Wickford train station, in Station Approach, and replace it with a new, modern build and to extend platforms.
However, the Covid pandemic put the project on hold and parts of the station were closed off by large hoardings.
Now, Network Rail has submitted fresh plans and insisted it is keen to carry out the redevelopment and upgrade.
The plans include a clock tower, covered platforms, a coffee kiosk.
As things stand, a double-countered ticket office is including in the plans however this could be removed depending on the outcome of a major consultation into whether ticket offices across the country should be scrapped.
Mark Francois, Rayleigh and Wickford MP, has been pressing for work to continue.
He said: “I welcome the fact that, after representations from both me and many of my constituents, Abellio Greater Anglia have now finally produced their long-awaited plans to redevelop Wickford Station.
“I was also pleased to note their proposals retain what looks like at least a small ticket office at the new station. If Basildon Borough Council give their approval, we should see construction underway next year, which, as Abellio demolished half the station many months ago, I suspect many of my constituents would welcome at last.”
George Jeffery, Wickford Park ward Conservative councillor has slammed the “abandoned” works in the past.
He said: “It’s great news but long overdue.
“With it being in an abandoned state, it’s not a good impression when people get off at or travel through our fantastic town.
“When the historic building was demolished, there should’ve been a temporary plan in place to make the facility look somewhat appealing.
“This news could not come soon enough.”
The application was verified by the council and published publicly on September 6, and will now go before the planning committee to vote on the proposals.
On September 27, Greater Anglia managers are holding their Let’s Talk event at the station from 5pm to 7pm.
It is hoped work will begin by mid-2024.
A spokesman for Greater Anglia said: “We are working on plans to improve customer facilities at Wickford Station as soon as is practical.
“Design plans have been submitted to Basildon Council’s planning department and incorporate provision for whatever retail approach is adopted by the industry in the future.
“We will keep our customers updated on the progress of these plans via our usual channels."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel