Highbridge railway station is set to receive new accessibility‑focused signage this spring after a fresh injection of funding, councillors confirmed this week.
Speaking at Monday’s meeting of Burnham and Highbridge Town Council, Cllr Lesley Millard announced that £12,300 from the GWR Community Fund has been secured to pay for improved wayfinding signs designed to help passengers navigate the station and surrounding area more easily. Installation is scheduled for June.
She said the funding forms part of an ongoing, multi‑phase project to upgrade facilities at the station, with the long‑term ambition of delivering step‑free access to both platforms.
A key element of the next stage will be the creation of a new way for passengers to move between platforms without having to use the steep Walrow footbridge.
The current route is widely regarded as difficult for those with mobility issues, parents with pushchairs, and travellers carrying luggage.
“It’s good news all round for improving the station,” said Cllr Millard during Monday’s meeting.
She added that a representative from the Highbridge Regeneration Group will be invited to join the project team to ensure a “joined‑up approach” as plans progress.
Cllr Millard also noted that MP Ashley Fox — who has been supportive of the project — will be invited to assist in seeking major funding alongside Somerset Council and to set a high priority for the project.
“Ashley has been involved all along but will now need to lead negotiations with the government and GWR to get step free access at the station,” added Cllr Millard.
“Our group will do everything we can to support him. We are building a collection of data through a survey to prove that it would improve life for residents and visitors. This will form part of a business plan that can be used to support step free access.“
Earlier this month, the MP visited the station and used a mobility scooter to experience switching platforms. The journey required a lengthy detour along pavements and over the Walrow bridge, highlighting the challenges faced by many passengers.
Town councillors said the demonstration underlined the importance of securing improvements as soon as possible.
The GWR funds have been transferred to Somerset Council as they will be buying the signs and installing them.
