Letter: Isn’t a Simple Footbridge All That Is Needed?

Published on: 16 Dec, 2025
Updated on: 16 Dec, 2025

Ash Railway Station Geograph

From Trevor Jones

Guildford Rail Users Group

As a disinterested party, given I’ve never used Ash Station (except possibly changing between a train and a replacement bus), I’d say the importance of a footbridge is for passengers changing trains e.g. on Reading/Aldershot/Farnham journeys, for which there was often a tight connection at Ash.

When passing through on a train from Guildford to Reading or Aldershot/Farnham, I think I’ve even seen people climbing the level crossing gate to attempt the connection.

I wonder whether the problem is that these days, whenever you do anything, you have to incorporate disabled access? This makes it so much more expensive than before. Disabled access is commendable as a general principle but shouldn’t this be an exception to the general rule?

What’s needed is a footbridge with a simple flight of steps (no lift or long ramp) that an able-bodied person can sprint up and down to make their connection. A mobility-impaired person is unlikely to want to rely on a quick connection between trains and can as now take their time via the level crossing.

Responses to Letter: Isn’t a Simple Footbridge All That Is Needed?

Frank Emery Reply

December 17, 2025 at 3:50 pm

If this had been factored in during the planning process we wouldn’t be having these discussions now.

Once again the inability of government, local or otherwise, to understand the need to do all due diligence prior to signing off projects leads to additional costs and disgruntled people.

When will they ever learn?
Roger Kendall Reply

December 19, 2025 at 5:51 pm

There is room for a ramp which gives a reasonable chance for most disabled people to cross. It could be simple and cheap. Rail bridges are not so high as road bridges so consequentially a gentle ramp is possible.

At the original consultation the issue of a foot bridge was raised and everybody suggested Railtrack might be looking into it. There was nothing more definite.

Unfortunately, with the nationalising of the railways the delay will probably only get worse. Perhaps as usual, it will require someone to be killed before it becomes urgent. It is easy to misjudge train speeds. Just make sure it is not you, or anyone in your family.