Tim Shoveller, leader of the South West Trains and Network Rail alliance, officially opened the new look Effingham Junction station. The project which was contributed to by the following parties: the Government through the National Station Improvement Programme, the Department for Transport, South West Trains, and Network Rail; now boasts a brand new modern brick and flint station building, improved station access and a more accessible footbridge and footpath. Disabled passengers will also benefit from the new ramp on the Guildford bound platform and a low level ticket window in the booking hall.

Set close to the leafy village of Effingham, the old wooden station building has been demolished and a new building has been built which complements the historic buildings in the surrounding area.

Effingham Junction has already benefitted from new waiting shelters on each of the two platforms. As part of the overall scheme, a wheelchair accessible toilet, a new pick-up and drop-off area, and extra customer information screens were also installed. As part of South West Trains’ commitment to delivering greener travel, facilities for an additional 16 bicycles have also been added.

Tim Shoveller commented: “Good rail links are vital for connecting passengers with the rest of the UK. The accessibility enhancements and upgrade of facilities at Effingham Junction, together with the newly positioned station building, will improve the flow of passengers in and out of the station, enhancing passengers’ journeys.

“We remain committed to invest over £50m in our stations over the duration of this franchise. The improvements we’ve made are a testimony to our commitment to delivering station enhancements for all our passengers.”