Alvechurch station
As a result of introducing the new section of track, we will also need to carry out some work at Alvechurch station. The second piece of railway will require a new additional platform at Alvechurch and a means of accessing it. The current proposal is to introduce a footbridge and lifts so passengers can cross safely over the railway to the new platform.
Following the first phase of consultation we've amended these plans slightly:
- The layout of the proposed bridge has been altered to make it easier for passengers to access the Birmingham-bound platforms. The staircase on the southbound platform will now face Station Road.
- A small equipment building housing a back up power supply for the new track has been included in the plans. This will be located close to the bridge at Station Road to help reduce visual impact.
Planning and building responsibly
The scheme will be delivered in phases and take approximately one year to complete. We anticipate the construction programme to consist of:
- An 8 week closure of the railway between Redditch and Barnt Green in June 2014
- Additional weekend closures of the railway to carry out preparatory works
- Phased periods of night time working during the construction period
We appreciate there will be some noise during construction. Steps will be taken to minimise the impact. A rail replacement service will be in operation when the line is closed and we will work closely with London Midland to inform passengers about disruption.
Bringing materials to site
We continue to consult the local authority to agree the most sensible routes to site and to take account of any planned road works.
We anticipate most construction traffic leaving the M42 at Junction 2, following the A441 Birmingham Road and then accessing a purpose built temporary haul road via Weights Lane. For some materials we may also have to use secondary routes via:
- Grange Lane
- The B4096, west of Station Road
- Station Road (east of the railway), for small vehicles only
Working with London Midland
During the first phase of consultation we received lots of comments about train services and station facilities at Redditch and Alvechurch. With the assistance of London Midland we have worked up a fact sheet that deals with these matters.
To find out how you can have your say on the scheme, view our draft application documents and help us to develop our plans visit our Community consultation page.