Major improvements to Pershore’s train station have taken a leap forward with the confirmation that a bridge has been identified for installation linking the platform to a brand-new car park.

And West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin, who has been leading the campaign to secure station improvements, welcomed the news that a feasibility study has confirmed that a recycled bridge can be used at Pershore.

The report, commissioned by Network Rail, confirmed that the bridge, which is currently in Reading, can be re-constructed at Pershore’s station, allowing Wychavon District Council to press on with plans for a new car park and enhanced parking for less able and disabled rail users.

The Department for Transport is now seeking local views to make sure that the plan complies with European regulations and offers better parking provision for disabled rail users.

Harriett has written to Transport Secretary Grant Shapps supporting the proposals and has called on local rail users – especially those with mobility issues or disabilities - to share their views with her so she can feed them back to the Department.

Harriett commented: “I am delighted that the Reading bridge is able to be re-sued in Pershore and I will be lobbying the Department for Transport to try and get this project moved forward as quickly as possible.

“I’ve held meetings at the station with Network Rail and local rail user groups, to make sure everyone is supportive of this plan, and I am reassured that this will mean better disabled parking provision and better facilities for less-able rail users.

“The European regulations require that at least four per cent of parking spaces are available to disabled people and the current plans offer 5.3 per cent provision.

“I’ve asked local rail users to share their views with me and I’m particularly keen to hear from disabled people about the challenges they currently face at Pershore station so we can make sure their voices are heard.

“Pershore train station has an important future, and with a new platform and a new car park this news is very exciting for the town.

“I want to thank Wychavon District Council for their persistence and hard work getting the project to this stage. I now hope the Transport Secretary will assess this plan and give his approval as quickly as possible.”