Bosses announce return of controversial footbridge closure at Nottingham Train Station
The operator has pointed to an increase in revenue during a recent trial
Last updated 31st Jan 2025
Access from a route used by rail passengers to get to Nottingham Station is to close again.
East Midlands Railway (EMR) has announced it is withdrawing access to platforms via the footbridge linking Station Street and Queen's Road next month following a similar pilot last year.
The operator had previously indicated that it was being abused by some customers to dodge fairs.
EMR claims the most recent closure, during a pilot back in October, lead to a significant increase in revenue, equating to a possible £1.1m per year.
It also cited an improvement in safety and security.
However, some passengers have criticised the move, with one describing the impact the move will have on their commute:
"It's going to make my journey far more stressful when I need to get a connecting train at the station. My usual one only has a ten minute gap between the two and often it's late.
"Going over the footbridge only takes a couple of minutes but during the trial closure I had to run to the main entrance and round to catch my connection or else there wasn't another train for over an hour."
The next closure is due to commence on Saturday 22nd February, although EMR says it won't affect a public right of way.
Passengers will need to use the main entrance of the station and EMR has advised they allow extra time for their journey.
Philippa Cresswell, Customer Service Director at East Midlands Railway, said: "The first short closure of the bridge laid bare the stark extent of ticketless travel that was taking place via the footbridge.
"This money belongs to the taxpayer and is vital for the railway to successfully operate, improve, and secure investment.
"We recognise that the pilot was not universally supported and increased the time it took for some customers to access or change trains; however, the benefits were too great not to progress this matter further.
"The first short closure of the bridge also highlighted significant safety and security benefits - including three direct interventions to support suicidal individuals.
"The closure, which will be kept under review, will allow us to capture more data and evidence around the issue.
"Of course, we are aware that this decision will not be popular with some parts of the community, but it is only right to protect the taxpayer and test our analysis and conclusions that were highlighted around safety."