Work continues at Stowmarket station as Greater Anglia advances its project to deliver a new modular footbridge equipped with passenger lifts, forming part of a wider investment under the Government’s Access for All programme. The initiative aims to significantly improve accessibility at the Suffolk station, where the only step-free route currently available is via the adjacent level crossing.
The £5.5 million scheme involves replacing the existing concrete footbridge with a fully accessible structure known as the ‘AVA’ bridge. Initial works began with the installation of a temporary footbridge in January 2025 to enable ongoing site preparation.
During a planned closure on 17–18 May, which coincided with Network Rail’s maintenance works on the Norwich–Ipswich line, Greater Anglia carried out further preparatory works. These included power and cabling installations, new drainage systems to accommodate roof runoff from the bridge and stairways, and the installation of a storage unit beneath platform 2 to support the new lift systems.
Platform edging slabs on both platforms were also repaired during the closure, making use of the opportunity to complete essential structural improvements with minimal impact on passengers.
The new bridge, manufactured off-site, is a modular structure constructed primarily of stainless steel. Designed to be low-maintenance and resistant to corrosion, it does not require painting and is expected to offer improved reliability over traditional footbridge designs. The integrated ‘plug-and-play’ lift systems and modular components allow for significantly reduced installation times, minimising disruption during the final phase of construction.
Although originally scheduled for earlier delivery, delays in lift manufacturing have pushed back installation. The bridge will now be installed during the next available engineering possession on the Norwich–Ipswich line in November 2025. Final commissioning and safety testing will follow, with the bridge expected to be operational by the end of the year.
Andrew Goodrum, Infrastructure and Projects Director at Greater Anglia, stated that the company is making steady progress and is committed to delivering a structure that will improve accessibility and convenience for passengers travelling through Stowmarket.
This project reflects a broader trend in the UK rail sector towards modular construction and prefabricated components, aimed at reducing on-site work durations and improving long-term operational efficiency.
