Plumstead station improvement works begin
Work to install lifts at Plumstead station for Thameslink and Southeastern passengers are underway after years of arguments.
Network Rail are now on site conducting Access for All work after revising original plans to remove many features such as the footbridge and areas of platform canopy.
Instead lift shafts will be constructed at the eastern end of both platforms.
The handsome current footbridge dates from 1892.
Here’s what Network Rail originally proposed before questions were raised and objections lodged.
After resistance, Network Rail finally relented and the station will now retain many characterful elements while access will be greatly improved for mobility impaired people and those with pushchairs.
If anything, it should now be cheaper than the previous plans which required much demolition.
A more recent part of Plumstead station’s history can also be seen here with Network South East’s red colour scheme in evidence where one lift shaft will be installed.
Despite investment for improved access staffing remains as bad if not worse than ever. This was the site during rush hour.
Despite around 2,500 homes now underway at three sites nearby there’s little attempt to improve staffing levels nor improve pedestrian access.
The three sites will see almost 2,000 homes at Lombard Square, 333 at a former care home to the north of the one-way system and 294 at a nearby college site.
