Further to my recent communications, I have spoken with Network Rail about the closed gate. I understand that they considering closing the gate permanently. This is apparently due to the differing heights of the two parallel walkways. Any decision will entail negotiation between Network Rail and Great Northern. The gate will remain closed until a decision has been made.
I am concerned that local residents and passengers are not sufficiently involved in this decision. The implications for passengers should be taken into account. If you feel strongly about this issue, please get in touch.
Replies
When I got of the train yesterday afternoon (the gate was closed), a bit of a bottle neck developed at the Station building end of the footbridge with people trying to turn back onto the footbridge and others trying to get to the platforms. All it took for the commotion to develop was a push bike and a push chair plus a dozen or so of us pedestrians. I fear it is not going to work in a rush hour or when there are events at the Palace.
What experience have others had?
Very annoying. Not impressed if they just close the gate rather than address the issue. (The gate also has something underfoot as you pass through....)
Apparently, there was an incident involving someone tripping. This led to the gate being closed.
As you say, they should address the issue. Their actions so far seem arbitrary and high handed. There is also the other issue of extremely poor communication.
I am keen to ensure that they involve local residents and passengers in their decision-making process.
To make things a little complicated, Network Rail and Great Northern Rail both seem keen to attribute responsibility to the other.