Hertford North Station:

Network Rail respond below, regarding the continued delays in providing a lift to platform 1:

Dear Jan,
 
Thanks for writing to us about the works to make Hertford North station step-free accessible. I’m replying as – – – – – – – – – – for the railway in this area. 
 
I realise that these works are important to you and to Hertford residents. I also understand your concern about the increased usage of platform 1 making the project even more critical. That’s why we remain firmly committed to delivering these works as soon as we can.
 
We now intend to begin work on site by January 2025. I know this is later than we had originally intended which is frustrating, so I’ve explained the reasons for this below. 
 
Until recently, the project team were confident that they could award the contract for delivering the project in full and begin work on site by April 2024. Unfortunately, because of inflation and necessary changes to the programme of works, the contractor’s best bid to carry out all the remaining work for the project was significantly higher than the project’s remaining budget. As this was unaffordable, we were unable to enter into this contract. 
 
Instead, we sought to ensure that work continue on the project, but also that it stayed within budget. To do this, we have entered into a shorter-term contract for some initial work. At the same time, we are continuing detailed design and development work to try to bring the cost down for the remaining work.
 
I’m sorry that these works have been delayed, especially as I realise that this is not the first delay that they have encountered, but I hope that this update is helpful. Please do not hesitate to contact me again if you have any further questions.
 
Kind regards,
 
– – – – – | Anglia route | Network Rail