Passengers using Chippenham railway station are being warned of changes to parking arrangements as a major programme of improvement works gets under way.
Network Rail began work on Saturday, 8 August, with the project expected to take around six months and designed to improve the passenger experience while preserving the Grade II listed station for years to come.
The programme will see the station’s weathered and damaged canopies replaced, alongside drainage improvements and resurfacing work on the platforms.
The work is intended to protect the historic station while ensuring it continues to meet the needs of the local community.
As part of the preparations, up to 82 spaces at Cocklebury Road Car Park 1, opposite Sadlers Mead, will temporarily be taken out of use while a contractor compound is installed.
Not all 82 spaces will be required throughout the project, but the compound is expected to remain in place for much of the six-month programme.
Passengers will still have alternative parking options, with the other car parks on Cocklebury Road and Sadlers Mead, along with Union Road car park, remaining open.
Matt Leigh, Senior Portfolio Manager for Network Rail’s Great Western route, said the investment would help safeguard the future of the historic station.
“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.”
The railway itself will continue operating during the majority of the work, although passengers should be aware of a significant change in September.
GWR Station Manager for Chippenham, Oana Apetroaie, said trains would not run through the station during the weekend of 12 and 13 September while scaffolding is installed.
“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.”
Passengers travelling during the works are advised to allow extra time for their journeys and check travel information before setting off, particularly around the September weekend closure.
