Three Bridges station upgrades reach almost eight times initial budget
Improvements at Crawley’s Three Bridges station were set around £1.5 million, but the total's jumped to nearly £8 million
The price tag for revamping a major Sussex railway station has reached almost eight times more than initial proposals.
Crawley Borough Council’s cabinet approved £1,500,000 for improvements to Three Bridges station in 2016.
Next week, it's councillors will be asked to approve a new figure of £7,970,968.
A spokesperson attributed the rise to inflation, Network Rail's compliance requirements, adhering to accessibility regulations and specialist equipment.
They added that "previously unforeseen" costs also arose as designs became more detailed.
An extra 20% has also been calculated to make up for uncertainties over rising material and labour costs.
Once work finally gets under way, key features will include the transformation of the station forecourt, new pedestrian crossing points, and new station access to the station.
Plans also include a fresh pedestrian and cycle access to platform 5, as well as an enlarged taxi rank and vehicle waiting area.
Councillors are due to meet on Wednesday (24th June) to consider approving the budget.