The Kier Group has said good progress is being made on a £1m scheme to refurbish the footbridge at St Albans Station, while the facility remains operational 24 hours a day.

Kier is carrying out the work on behalf of Network Rail.

The improvement works commenced on site on 1 April and a scheduled completion date for the end of August 2013 has been given.

The scope of work being carried out by the firm includes:

• removing the existing GRP cladding to the sides of the footbridge and staircases and installing a new cladding system
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• replacing the existing roof and installing new UPVC fascia board
  
  installing new floor and stairs



• carrying out concrete repairs as required



• installing new handrails along both sides of the staircase and footbridge,
  
  repairing the existing ceiling and installing new lighting, and incorporating existing services as required



• and repainting the footbridge.

Robert Marshall, Kier Contracts Manager, said: "Our brief is to rationalise, refurbish and renew an ageing asset while at the same time minimising future maintenance costs for Network Rail.

"We are also tasked with ensuring the safety and comfort of Network Rail's customers and minimising disruption to the day-to-day operation of the station and inconvenience to passengers, staff and train crew."

St Albans City Station is located on the Midland Main Line and is served by First Capital Connect on the Thameslink service. It provides access to destinations including London, Gatwick Airport, Luton Airport and Brighton.

(JP/IT)