Effingham Junction going modular?

Network Rail has selected Effingham Junction for a new modular station that is supposed to be an exemplar for other similar locations in Surrey

Network Rail has selected Effingham Junction for a new modular station that is supposed to be an exemplar for other similar locations in Surrey. It seems almost uncharitable to report that after so many years of neglect, this new proposal is totally inappropriate in terms of design, facilities, layout and appearance.

 

This is not just CPRE Surrey’s view but is shared by East Horsley, Effingham and West Clandon Parish Councils and many other rail passengers and commuters as well. Clearly something needs to be done to improve the facilities at Effingham but it is not what is currently proposed by Network Rail. The modular design has a suburban appearance and involves a new passenger footbridge with two obtrusive lift towers. The station office is in the wrong place and the passenger shelters are inadequate in terms of weather protection.

 

The appearance of the station is not as shown by the artist’s impression printed in a recent Surrey Advertiser. "Rolling out" this design across Surrey would lead to a loss of identity and introduce an undesirable element of uniformity where diversity is part of our railway heritage. CPRE hopes that the objections to this proposal will be influential enough to ensure that a better solution is found on which a full consultation will be possible.