Network Rail has awarded a second contract to Octavius within a month, confirming plans to deliver major accessibility improvements at Southend East station for c2c passengers.

The latest contract will see the installation of two new lifts and a fully accessible footbridge, designed to make travel easier and safer for passengers with reduced mobility, pushchairs, or heavy luggage.

This follows the recent announcement of a similar accessibility project at Chalkwell station, also along the c2c line. With Octavius now appointed to deliver works at both stations, Network Rail is coordinating the upgrades as part of a unified delivery programme.

Both projects are being funded through the Department for Transport’s ‘Access for All’ scheme, a nationwide initiative to improve accessibility across the UK rail network.

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Work at Southend East is being closely coordinated with c2c, which operates the station, and Southend City Council, to ensure efficient delivery with minimal disruption. Preparatory works are scheduled to begin this autumn, with completion and lift installation targeted by the end of 2026.

A public drop-in event will be held ahead of the main construction phase, giving passengers and local residents the opportunity to view the plans and raise any questions. The date is yet to be confirmed.

Katie Frost, Network Rail's route director for Anglia, said: "With Octavius on board at Southend East as well as at Chalkwell, we are now driving forward a more inclusive railway with confidence. Working with our partners, this is a significant step towards delivering these benefits at Southend East for the benefit of all passengers who use the station."

Donna Thorpe, Asset Director at c2c, added: "We are really pleased that work on both Southend East and Chalkwell stations is due to start before the end of this year. When complete, it will hugely benefit the local communities in Southend-on-Sea and all those using the c2c rail service, contributing to a much-improved customer experience for everyone.

"While this work takes place, and to ensure disruption is as minimal as possible, we will continue to work closely with Network Rail, Octavius Infrastructure Ltd and Southend City Council."