SOUTH East Senedd member Laura Anne Jones has paid a visit to Abergavenny Railway Station to check progress on the £8.6m ‘Beacon’ footbridge project as it nears completion

The Conservative MS, who lives in Monmouth, joined active footbridge campaigner and local county councillor Maureen Powell (Con, Pen Y Fan ) and other project supporters for an update on the long-awaited footbridge, which is the first fully covered crossing of its kind in Wales.

They met with representatives from Network Rail and Transport for Wales to discuss the project and the future benefits it will provide to Abergavenny and Monmouthshire.

Maureen Powell and Laura Anne Jones MS Visit Abergavenny Railway Station Footbridge as Project Nears Completion
Laura Anne Jones MS, centre, at Abergavenny Railway Station (Supplied)

Set for completion in March, the scheme is on time and within budget, marking “a major step forward in providing safe, accessible transport options” at the station, which provides a direct link with South Wales and the North West.

The new footbridge, aptly named ‘The Beacon’ has a striking design feature at the top of the lift shaft, and will replace the station's level crossing, eliminating health and safety risks and vastly improving station accessibility for wheelchair users, people with disabilities/injuries and those carrying heavy luggage.

Ms Jones said: “It is an impressive structure and one-of-a-kind design – the first covered “beacon” bridge in Wales.

“It is really great to have this, and a massive well done to Cllr Powell for pushing hard for this welcome addition to the station.

“The bridge and lifts, will enable equality of access for all, and I am pleased that this bridge will make it easier for everyone to visit and enjoy Abergavenny, as well as travel around for work and pleasure.”

Councillor Powell, who has been a steadfast advocate for the improvement for over a decade, said:“Seeing the footbridge almost complete is truly gratifying.

“This new bridge will enhance safety and provide much-needed accessibility, allowing everyone, including those with mobility challenges, to enjoy the convenience of this station.”

The project’s progress reflects strong collaborative efforts between local authorities and national organisations like Network Rail and Transport for Wales, and highlights a broader commitment to enhancing transport accessibility in Southeast Wales.