Step Free Option for Strand on the Green Footbridge Ruled Out
Network Rail to proceed with existing plans requiring ten week closure
The notification of works planned at the footbridge
September 10, 2023
Network Rail is refusing to consider a step free alternative to its plans to replace the footbridge over the rail tracks near Strand on the Green School.
It has confirmed to us that it intends to press ahead with an application for a like for like replacement of the existing structure due to a lack of funding making it unable to consider an accessible alternative.
Local residents have been urging them to consider the possibility of a ramp like structure which would allow people with mobility issues to use the bridge as well as those with small children in push chairs.
Andrew Ross has presented the company with an outline design for a flow footbridge which he says would be feasible as the land needed belongs to Hounslow Council and the freeholder of Chiswick Village. Network Rail has used this type of design in other places.
However, it has emerged that Network Rail is set to build 17 inaccessible bridges as well the one at Brooks Lane. An investigation by Disability News Service (DNS) revealed the plans after making a Freedom of Information request.
Mr Ross says that it is rushing through the replacement knowing that a Public Inquiry has been ordered by the government into the company’s apparent breach of the requirements for access both under the Equality Act 1910 and the Disability and Discrimination Act.
Footbridge to Brooks Lane. Picture: Martin Addison
Network Rail had intended to replace the Chiswick bridge earlier this year but was forced to postpone the work which would have required closure for ten weeks. Local councillor Peter Thompson said that the company had failed to adequately engage with the community about the plans. When he saw a notice at the site, he contacted the relevant officers at Hounslow Council who told him they had not been informed.
Objections are also being made to the latest application (PALL/2023/242) on the grounds that apparently most residents of Strand on the Green have not received notification letters unlike those north of the bridge.
Network Rail are unable to confirm at this stage the dates for the work which are expected to result in the bridge being completely shut for ten weeks.
A spokesperson for the company said at the time of the original application, "In terms of the replacement bridge, we are funded to renew the structure which does not meet our current standards but are looking to do what we can to improve it at the same time – so for instance, whether we could also install cycle gullies and we will be improving safety at the bridge by increasing the height of the parapet. It is also our intention to perforate the parapet which should also help to reduce anti-social behaviour."
To make a comment on the application visit the planning section of the Hounslow Council web site and search using the reference PALL/2023/242.
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