Anglia Access for All schemes

Network Rail Anglia is currently planning, delivering or working in collaboration with rail industry partners to make accessibility improvements at several locations on our Anglia network as part of the Government’s Access for All (AfA) programme.

Chalkwell station

Located on the Essex coast, we’re moving forward with plans to make Chalkwell station in Southend accessible. We’ll be building two new lifts and replacing the station footbridge.

Our plans will make it easier for c2c passengers to access rail services for people with health conditions or impairments. As well as people with children, heavy luggage or shopping and some older people

Southend City Council approved the planning application on 6 May 2025. We’ve appointed contractor Octavius to begin preparation for start of work in August 2025

The current intention is to complete all work and have new lifts available to use by the end of 2026.

Latest News

June 2025: Contract awarded to improve accessibility at Chalkwell station

Southend East station

Also located on the Essex Thameside line, Southend East passengers will also be benefitting from step-free access by the end of 2026.

Our plans will make Southend East station accessible by building two new lifts and a new footbridge, improving accessibility for everyone.

The current intention is to complete all work and have new lifts available to use by the end of 2026.

Latest News

June 2025: Contract awarded for accessibility improvements at second Southend station

Stowmarket station

Accessibility improvements at Stowmarket station are being delivered by Greater Anglia, using a ‘revolutionary’, first-of-its-kind accessible ‘AVA’ bridge, which includes fully operational lifts. Stowmarket station’s new accessible AVA footbridge is expected to open before the end of 2025.

Latest News

May 2025: Greater Anglia continues work on ‘revolutionary’ new bridge at Stowmarket rail station

January 2025: Work continues on ‘revolutionary’ new bridge at Stowmarket rail station

More information about the AfA programme can be found on our national webpage.