Passengers using Derby station will witness a transformation unfold over the next 18 months as Network Rail embarks on a major project to dismantle, then completely rebuild the platform canopies. The project will include new lifts between the train platforms and footbridge to improve accessibility for less mobile passengers.
Preliminary work will take place over the Christmas period and the work starts in earnest in February when the first phase of the project gets underway.
Network Rail Route Director Dyan Crowther said: “This major investment will transform Derby into a bright modern train station fit for the thousands of passengers who use it every day. This is a big job and to minimise disruption we will be completing the project in phases to keep the station open for passengers and train services throughout.”
Work to dismantle and rebuild the station will take place in four phases between February 2008 and June 2009. While the station will remain open certain platforms will have to be closed at different points throughout the project and there will be some changes to timetabled train services, particularly at weekends.
Network Rail is working closely with East Midlands Trains to ensure passengers are kept informed of any changes to train services and station car parking arrangements.
East Midlands Trains Managing Director Tim Shoveller commented: “As the new train operator for the East Midlands, we’re delighted to be working with Network Rail on the improvements to Derby station. We’re proud to manage the station at Derby, a city with a great railway history, and we hope that this upgrade will provide a train station fitting with this.
“We will work with Network Rail to ensure that disruption to our passengers is kept to a minimum throughout the work, and will ensure that regular, updated information is available, both at the station and on our website, eastmidlandstrains.co.uk.”