The Council has committed some Section 106 funding for improvements at Reedham Station which is welcomed.
The amount (£25,000) is relatively modest and will cover some initial design work and a limited package of improvements rather than major accessibility and capacity upgrades.
It is, however, a positive start.
We have been working with the Hartley & District Residents Association (HADRA) and Chris Philp MP on better disabled access at Reedham Station. As part of this, a bid was submitted through the Government's Access for All Scheme via Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), but was rejected in 2024. We were told at the time that the next round of funding bids was likely in five years time, which of course was disappointing.
In terms of timescales, the Council anticipate starting discussions with GTR to establish the funding available, scope out design works, and agree on the potential timing of delivery of minor improvements once designs are agreed and approved. The Council has also committed to exploring opportunities for additional funding, future development contributions or external grants to support further enhancements. As part of this, consideration could be given to holding the funds, and waiting for more so we can do more comprehensive works.
In the coming months, as ward councillors, we will be engaging with officers and GTR on this and would welcome any thoughts from residents on how this funding could be spent. If you have any thoughts, feel free to write to us at [email protected]
