From tomorrow (Saturday 8th August), a programme of improvements will begin at Chippenham station, helping to enhance the passenger experience and preserve key infrastructure for years to come.
Network Rail is replacing the weathered and damaged canopies, as well as improving drainage and resurfacing platforms at the Grade II listed station. The work will help maintain the historic site and ensure it continues to serve the local community well into the future.
To enable the improvements to be carried out safely and efficiently, up to 82 parking spaces in Cocklebury Road Car Park 1, opposite Sadlers Mead, will be temporarily unavailable while a contractor compound is in place from tomorrow.
The programme is expected to take around six months to complete, although not all 82 spaces will be required throughout the project.
Passengers can continue to use the other car parks on Cocklebury Road and Sadlers Mead, as well as the Union Road car park, all of which will remain open during the works.
Matt Leigh, senior portfolio manager for Network Rail’s Great Western route, said:
“This project will preserve an important historic station while creating a better environment for passengers.
“We’re carrying out a range of improvements, including replacing the canopies, upgrading drainage and resurfacing platforms, helping ensure the station continues to serve the local community for many years to come.
“We appreciate passengers’ patience while this work takes place and are working closely with GWR to minimise disruption. Alternative parking will remain available throughout the project.”
GWR’s Station Manager for Chippenham, Oana Apetroaie, said:
“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause customers, but this is an important investment in the future of Chippenham station.
“Trains will continue to run throughout the work, except the weekend of 12/13 September when scaffolding is being put up in the station.
“That weekend buses will replace trains between Chippenham and Swindon, Westbury or Bath Spa.”
Image credit: Network Rail
