June 29 2023

Accessibility improvements to a B-listed train station in Dumfries have stoked controversy over moves to replace a historic footbridge with an off-the-shelf alternative.

IDP Architects propose to provide step-free access to both platforms by replacing an existing pedestrian crossing with a new build solution served by lifts at either end.

This has forced the height of the structure to be raised, prompting criticism from Loreburn Community Council that it is no longer in scale with its environment.

Funded by Access for All, the footbridge joins a succession of similar structures installed at stations such as Reston and Croy to ease journeys for people with impaired mobility, bikes, children and luggage.

A site start is expected to be made in the autumn for completion by spring 2024.

5 Comments

#1 Posted by Fat Bloke on Tour on 29 Jun 2023 at 14:37 PM

Another railway bridge that thinks we live in the Sahara -- open to the elements and that includes our world class rainy climate.

Funny how the platforms have large areas of shelter but the route between them is open to the elements.

Not good / big fail.

#2 Posted by Whispering Andy on 29 Jun 2023 at 15:24 PM

Whisper it......but train station bridges should be filed in the 'yeah, whatever' folder. They should provide a function and thats that. Does anyone ever stand in one of the non-descript stations we have dotted throughout the country and think 'gee - i really miss the one from the '60s.' Nope. People play on their gameboys and hope that the train will be on time. Thats all.

#3 Posted by Shatner's Bassoon on 30 Jun 2023 at 14:49 PM

Listed buildings, yeah whatever... Look out, Andy will have Netowrk Rail demolish Glasgow Central Station and replace it with a bunch of bus shelters next. No one will notice because of their iPhones.

#4 Posted by Whispering Andy on 4 Jul 2023 at 14:02 PM

Whisper it.........but there's more than a subtle difference between Central Station and a nonedescript wee bridge over a track in Dumfries.

#5 Posted by Shatner's Bassoon on 4 Jul 2023 at 15:45 PM

Is there though? Dumfries station isn't a 'non-descript station' as you insultingly refer to it in post 2. Sure its smaller that Central and handles less traffic, but its B Listed, is architecturally unique and it serves as a gateway to a major town.

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