🚉 Wickford Station

Commons Chamber

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Wickford station’s long-awaited rebuild is finally set to begin this summer, aiming for completion by the end of 2026, after years of delays and challenges. The new design will feature modern amenities including a ticket office, automatic gates, and future provisions for lifts, serving as a model for other stations. Local MP Mark Francois has been instrumental in pushing the project forward, even engaging with international stakeholders to secure its progress. Despite the improvements, there remains a concern about the lack of immediate full disabled access, which the government assures will be considered in future funding reviews.

Summary

  • Wickford Station Rebuild: MP Mark Francois highlighted the importance of rebuilding Wickford station, a key project for the town’s regeneration. He recounted the challenges and delays in the project, expressing relief and gratitude for the recent progress.

  • Town’s Economic Challenges: Wickford has faced economic difficulties in recent years, including the closure of banks and retail outlets, which has reduced footfall on the high street. The town also suffered from the closure of the police station and a major supermarket.

  • Supermarket Developments: Aldi has rebuilt and reopened a store near Wickford station, while plans are underway to redevelop the old Co-op site into a new supermarket and residential units.

  • Roadworks and Infrastructure: The town has seen extensive and often delayed roadworks, particularly by Cadent, which have frustrated residents. The MP called for better management of such projects.

  • Station Redevelopment: The station’s platforms were extended for new trains, but the rebuild has been delayed due to funding issues exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The project is now set to proceed with a contract signed with Walker Construction.

  • New Station Features: The new design for Wickford station includes a ticket office, a modern waiting area, and an iconic clock tower. It will serve as a model for other small and medium-sized stations.

  • Accessibility Concerns: The current design lacks full disabled access, which is a concern for some constituents. The MP hopes future funding will allow for the addition of wheelchair-accessible facilities.

  • Timeline: Construction is expected to start in the summer of 2025 and be completed by the end of 2026, with efforts to maintain train services during the works.

  • Government Response: Transport Minister Simon Lightwood acknowledged the delays and expressed support for the project. He highlighted the government’s commitment to improving rail infrastructure and accessibility, including plans for future funding to enhance accessibility at Wickford station.

Divisiveness

The session does not exhibit significant disagreement between the participants. Mr. Mark Francois, the MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, raises concerns and shares the history and importance of the Wickford station redevelopment to his constituents. The Minister, Simon Lightwood, responds with detailed explanations of the delays, the current status of the project, and future plans. The Minister’s response is largely supportive and cooperative, addressing the points raised by Mr. Francois without challenging them or expressing dissent. There are no instances of direct disagreement or conflicting views presented during the session.

Examples of agreement or support include: - Mr. Francois appreciates the presence of the Minister and the efforts of Greater Anglia towards the project. He expresses gratitude for the funding provided and the progress made. - The Minister acknowledges the delays and the importance of the project, explaining the reasons behind them while reaffirming the government’s commitment to its completion. The Minister also assures efforts to maintain train services during the rebuild, which was a concern raised by Mr. Francois.

Overall, the session is characterized by a cooperative exchange aimed at advancing the Wickford station redevelopment, which justifies the rating of 1 for disagreement.