New entrance can now be built
A 'stopping up order' which allows Network Rail to build a new entrance building to Wandsworth Town Station on Old York Road, has been approved.
This was the final planning hurdle for the scheme which was awarded planning consent by the Council in August last year.
The new single storey, glass fronted building will provide a ticket office and replace the temporary facilities currently located outside the station. It will mean the automatic ticket barriers can be moved out of the narrow subway tunnel where they cause queues at peak times.
The new entrance will also improve station security by controlling admission to all four platforms. The current layout allows passengers to access Platform One without passing through a ticket barrier.
The scheme is being funded by Network Rail, South West Trains and Wandsworth Council. Contributions from local developers have been secured through conditions attached to their planning consents.
Wandsworth Council regeneration spokesman Ravi Govindia says:
"Old York Road is an attractive and popular part of the town centre and it's high time the scruffy and impractical station facilities were upgraded.
“A purpose built entrance building would finally solve the congestion problems at this increasingly busy station and make passing through a far more pleasant experience."
January 14th, 2010
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