Shock at Network Rail Admission on Chiswick Station Footbridge

Structure will remain closed until February

The footbridge at Chiswick Station is closed until next year

September 18, 2025

There has been a shocked and angry reaction from local residents to an admission from Network Rail that the footbridge at Chiswick Station is to remain closed until next year.

Rumours have been circulating in the area that it was unlikely to reopen on the scheduled date this Monday (15 September) but even the most pessimistic had predicted a delay of a few weeks.

However. Network Rail has now confirmed that the refurbishment is not anticipated to be completed until February 2026, citing the need for additional steel repairs and restricted access to the railway during non-operational hours. The announcement, shared with stakeholders by letter September, acknowledges the disruption caused and offers apologies to the local community.

The footbridge, which provides a vital pedestrian link across the railway for Grove Park residents and commuters, has been shut since the beginning of August forcing lengthy detours for some. The latest delay has prompted renewed concern from Chiswick’s Conservative councillors, who are calling for improved engagement and transparency from both Network Rail and Hounslow Council.

Cllr Jack Emsley, who represents Chiswick Homefields ward, said, “We all agree that the bridge must be made safe – no one would want the works rushed at the expense of public safety. But Grove Park residents and schools have already experienced major inconvenience from previous closures, and communication throughout the process has been poor. This must change.”

Cllr Gabriella Giles (Chiswick Riverside) highlighted the impact on local students adding, “This delay will have a particular impact on students at Chiswick School if the works continue during term time, making daily journeys far longer and more difficult. I specifically asked Network Rail to explore the option of a temporary replacement crossing, but unfortunately, this was turned down. At the very least, Network Rail must now engage far earlier with schools, residents and businesses before any disruptive works take place.”

Network Rail’s update attributes the extended timeline to the deteriorated condition of the bridge and the logistical challenges of scheduling works during train-free periods. The organisation has offered to arrange on-site briefings for stakeholders and pledged to provide further updates as the programme progresses.

Cllr Peter Thompson (Chiswick Riverside) concluded, “We will continue to press Network Rail to deliver this project as swiftly as possible, but also to put communication with residents front and centre. Our community deserves a safe bridge and clear, honest updates on when they can expect it back.”

The councillors reiterated that while safety must remain the priority, the community should not be left in the dark about timelines and disruptions. They are urging Network Rail and the local authority to improve coordination and ensure residents are properly informed ahead of any future closures.

A Network Rail spokesperson said, “During the works at Chiswick Station footbridge, we identified that the condition of the bridge is worse than originally anticipated. This means additional steel repair works are required. As a result, the project will need more time and further access to the railway to ensure the footbridge is safe and fit for passengers.

“We now anticipate completion by February 2026. The principal reason for this further delay is the need to secure access during periods when no trains are running. This requires us to balance the demands of refurbishment with the need to minimise travel disruption through this section of the network.

“We recognise the disruption this causes to the local community and passengers, and we sincerely apologise for the delay. Updates will continue to be shared with the local community as the works progress and ahead of any particularly disruptive activities.”