The pedestrian subway at Bexley station will be closed permanently from Saturday 6 September, because of significant structural defects found in the underpass. Customers will be able to use the new lifts and footbridge opened in 2024 for step-free access around the station.
South Eastern Railway has made the decision to close the subway following extensive structural inspections, which identified defects that present a long-term risk to the safety of customers and the integrity of the railway.
Customers can still cross between the platforms, using the lifts and footbridge that were opened in 2024 as part of a £6m Access for All investment that made the station fully step-free. There will also be more space on the platforms once the subway entrances are covered over.
David Davidson, Chief Operating Officer for the South Eastern Railway, said: “We’re really sorry for the inconvenience caused by closing the subway. Our engineers carefully considered whether it could be repaired. Unfortunately, because the structure also supports the busy railway line above, with both passenger and heavy freight trains passing through, the work would have been highly complex, disruptive, and extremely costly. Closing the subway is the safest and most practical step we can take for our customers.
“We know this will affect many people and we haven’t taken the decision lightly.
“We want to reassure our customers there’s no immediate safety risk. The subway will remain safe to use in the meantime and will remain open into early September.”
Following the subway closure four-car train services will stop further along the London-bound platform so that the stairs and lift are in the middle of the train position. Staff will also be on hand to help passengers move around the station smoothly.
The closure of the subway is just one part of wider improvements to keep the station safe, bright and easy to use. Over the coming months work will commence on resurfacing the platforms and replacing lighting columns to provide a more welcoming environment.
