Work is underway to make St Erth station fully accessible for the first time. 

A new footbridge with lifts will be installed bringing step-free access to the whole of the grade II listed station for the first time since it was built in 1852. 

Network Rail’s contractor, BAM Nuttall, has begun work with the project, set to be completed in spring 2024. 

The current footbridge will be carefully dismantled and rebuilt at Cranmore station on the East Somerset Railway – a heritage steam railway. 

The work continues Network Rail’s investment on the iconic St Ives branch line, which carries a million passengers a year, supporting tourism and businesses in the area. 

The project is part of the government’s Access for All scheme to improve access at stations across the country. 

Alina Wolfe Murray, Network Rail senior sponsor, said: “We’re so pleased this work is underway to bring significant benefits to all passengers using St Erth. 

“The line is one of the most beautiful stretches of railway in the country and we’re determined to ensure as many people as possible can enjoy it. 

“The area has just seen a very busy summer holiday season and next year it will be even easier to visit the region by rail.”