Greater Anglia has announced that work to install a pioneering accessible ‘AVA’ footbridge at Stowmarket station will begin next month, marking a major milestone in making rail travel easier for all passengers.

Newly released images showcase the sleek appearance of the structure, which has been designed using a modular system to reduce time spent working on-site. The bridge will be installed during engineering works on the Norwich–Ipswich line, with the lift-equipped crossing due to be put into position over the weekend of Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November. Once installed, the footbridge will undergo testing, ahead of its scheduled opening to passengers in early January 2026.

Customers travelling by car are advised that Stowmarket’s parking capacity will be temporarily reduced between 17 November and 4 December, as cranes and construction equipment are brought in to support the project. The new footbridge replaces an older concrete structure and will offer a step-free route between platforms — a significant upgrade given that the level crossing currently provides the only step-free access.

Andrew Goodrum, Infrastructure and Projects Director for Greater Anglia, said:
“Greater Anglia is making good progress on the preparation works for this new, first-of-its-kind footbridge ahead of its installation later this year, which will enable easier, more accessible journeys for passengers using and changing trains at Stowmarket station.

“We are looking forward to delivering this revolutionary new footbridge, complete with lifts, for our customers.”

The £5.5 million scheme is funded through the Government’s Access for All programme and has been designed for durability, with a stainless-steel construction that removes the need for painting and reduces long-term maintenance. Thanks to its modular components and plug-and-play lift system, time needed for commissioning will be cut significantly — helping to limit disruption both for rail users and local residents.

Image: Greater Anglia