Sir Alok Sharma, MP for Reading West, views major accessibility works at Theale Railway Station

Sir Alok Sharma, MP for Reading West, recently visited Theale Railway Station to view its major new redevelopment.

After campaigning for better access at Theale Station for nearly 10 years, from Mr Sharma, as well as Theale Parish Council, West Berkshire Council and campaign group Theale’s Future, works on improving the station’s accessibility began in January.

And on Friday, June 16, Mr Sharma went to see first-hand the progress on the works, which are now well under way.

“Having campaigned hard over many years to win government funding for this project, it is great to see it finally coming to fruition,” said Mr Sharma.

“I know that the upgrades will benefit commuters, especially wheelchair users and parents with pushchairs.”

Theale joined two other stations in West Berkshire and Reading Borough in receiving £18million of government investment from the Department of Transport in 2018.

The funding for Theale will go towards a new fully accessible footbridge with lifts, a new ticket office, doubling of car parking spaces and improved access for buses and taxis.

Most of the foundation work is now complete, in addition to the widening of platforms.

Work on the structure of the footbridge has also started, with the steelwork structure currently being installed.

Network Rail capital delivery director, Stuart Calvert, added: “Work has been progressing well at Theale station with the first major set of works taking place over the weekend.

“This includes three new lift towers and support columns being installed.

“Work will continue over the coming weeks and months to provide passengers with a fully accessible station.”

Mr Calvert said he looks look forward to welcoming passengers to use the lifts between platforms by early 2024.