Long-awaited works to rebuild a south Essex train station are on track as the foundations are now almost complete.
The update comes after Mark Francois, MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, visited Wickford Station to inspect progress for himself.
The project is being led by Greater Anglia and will deliver a modern station building designed for the 21st century.
Plans include new waiting areas, a platform awning, ticket vending machines, a new ticket office and improved toilet facilities.
Mr Francois said: "I was pleased to witness the building work at Wickford Station progressing well and it should, if the weather holds, now hopefully be completed this autumn.
"This has been a long time coming but my Wickford constituents should now, finally, receive a brand new station, fit for the 21st century."
Plans to rebuild Wickford Station were first unveiled by Greater Anglia in 2020.
The scheme was then delayed by the Covid pandemic and subsequent funding challenges.
Part of the station was demolished and closed off before work was paused, leaving hoardings and temporary facilities in place.
The situation caused frustration for commuters and residents, with the stalled project becoming a long‑running local issue.
Mr Francois spent around three years lobbying Greater Anglia and the Department for Transport to secure permission and funding for a full rebuild.
That process resulted in a £4 million funding agreement being confirmed in 2024.
Construction on the long‑awaited scheme finally began in September 2025.
During his visit, Mr Francois spoke with workers on site who confirmed the foundations are now nearing completion.
Providing weather conditions remain favourable, the station rebuild is expected to be completed this autumn.
The MP said he would continue to monitor progress as work enters its final stages.
He added that the rebuild represents a significant investment in Wickford’s transport infrastructure and the wider south Essex rail network.
Walker Construction are carrying out the upgrade works.
Phil Webb, managing director at Walker Construction, previously said: "We are proud and privileged to be collaborating with Greater Anglia on this first-of-a-kind hub station.
"It is forward-thinking of Greater Anglia to use modern methods of construction, and this project will significantly improve the passenger experience."
