ABP land transferred to Hampshire County Council
Associated British Ports (ABP) Southampton has recently provided land to Hampshire County Council to construct a better pedestrian access route to Totton Train Station, linking it with the High Street.
Currently platform two is not accessible to all users due to the steps from the south entrance of the station. The additional entrance is part of a scheme managed by Hampshire County Council, South Western Rail and Network Rail.
Ian Henderson, Head of Property at ABP, said: "We are pleased to dedicate this unused land for the benefit of the local community. The land had been a branch line for goods-only trains into Eling Wharf, which closed in 1993. The fact that this land can improve a public amenity rather than be left with no real use is a win/win for the community and visitors to the area.
Hampshire County Council Leader, Councillor Rob Humby, said: “We are working with South Western Railway and Network Rail to construct a short footpath connecting the High Street to the westbound platform. The footpath will provide secondary access to platform two, which will be step free, making it easier for people with mobility impairments and pushchairs.”
ABP is delighted to see the construction of the new footpath has started which is expected to be completed in four weeks. ABP is proud to be part of the Totton community and work with them and Hampshire County Council on delivering an improved access route to platform two; this land will benefit commuters and enable the station to be accessible for all.
This year, ABP Southampton is also working on other community initiatives such as the Southampton Marathon, ANDYSMAN CLUB, as its charity of the year. It offers support to other charities and organisations, including Southampton Sea Cadets, Southampton Veterans Trust and the Marchwood ‘Party in the Park' community event.
