Winchester & Chandler's Ford MP Steve Brine hosted Rail Minister, Stephen Hammond, on Monday 9th December to view the various works taking place at Winchester railway station and follow up on some key issues raised at a recent public meeting in the city.
Mr Hammond, who grew up in Chandler's Ford, was able to see for himself the work being done to introduce a new decked car park at the station and the footbridge being constructed as part of the 'Access for all' scheme. He was also able to join discussions Mr Brine is having with South West Trains around late night safety for travellers, including the access road leading to Andover Road, which was highlighted as a key safety concern at the local MPs recent Ask SWT session.
Steve Brine said: "There is significant investment taking place in Winchester right now so it was important to have the Minister visit and check on progress. It was really useful also to brief him on my recent meeting with South West Trains and local rail users and for him to hear what looks like good news on our work to improve late night safety, especially for women, in and around the station."
The Minister heard how South West Trains and Network Rail are working with Hunts Foodstuffs, who own the land, to create a safe pedestrian walkway from the car park out onto Andover Road. Constituents have told the MP they feel unsafe using the route which is pitch-black after dark.
Steve Brine added: "A further meeting is planned between South West Trains, its contractors and Winchester City Council in January to agree the details and we're very hopeful the work can be completed before the new decked car park opens in March.I will be staying very close to this one."
The group also discussed the possibility of Winchester Station being staffed beyond midnight in future. At present all shifts end at 10pm.
Stephen Hammond said: "With year on year increases in demand it is so important investment keeps coming forward and these seem like much-needed schemes. I was really impressed with the benefits these projects will bring for Winchester. Steve Brine has already briefed me on his ASK SWT event and I know he's working hard on various issues it threw up, such as addressing the valid concerns local travellers have around their safety."
Pictured; Steve Brine MP, Stephen Hammond MP with Andy Mundy (SWT Project Manager) and Winchester Station Manager, Danny Maile
