Reopening Date for Chiswick Station Footbridge Confirmed
Six months of inconvenience for local commuters set to finally end
The footbridge has been closed since last August
February 19, 2026
Network Rail has confirmed that the new footbridge at Chiswick station has now been successfully lifted into place. The reinstated structure was installed during engineering works earlier this month, and the rail operator has now announced that the bridge will fully reopen on Friday 27 February.
Posters at by the bridge refer to a mid-February return to full usage but no explanation has been offered by Network Rail for the delay. No reopening time has been given, and there is no indication that any official ceremony will take place.
The main span of the bridge was removed last August after engineers discovered significant structural deterioration. It underwent extensive off-site refurbishment before being craned back into position during a planned line closure earlier this month. Although the installation itself was completed smoothly, the bridge has remained shut while teams carried out cabling, lighting, testing and final safety checks.
The footbridge provides the only direct pedestrian route between the two platforms without exiting onto surrounding streets. Its closure forced passengers and local residents into a lengthy diversion via the road bridge, a particular challenge during peak hours and for those with mobility issues.
What was originally expected to be a short closure extended for months after engineers found the bridge’s condition was worse than anticipated. The staircases were repaired and repainted on site, but the main span required full refurbishment off-site before it could be safely returned.
During the installation weekend, engineers set up a mobile crane, completed steelwork and lifted the refurbished span into place. Temporary cabling that had been running across the tracks was removed and replaced with permanent wiring. Burlington Lane was closed to traffic to allow for crane movements.
Signage at the bridge promising a mid-February opening
Since the lift-in, Network Rail teams have been working on selected days and mid-week nights to complete the remaining structural tasks, reinstate lighting and carry out final safety inspections. Some additional painting may still be required later in the year, depending on access.
In a letter to residents, Network Rail said, “Our teams are working to ensure the footbridge can be reopened to the public as soon as possible. The main span has now been refurbished off site, and we would like to thank the Chiswick community for their patience while we have been carrying out these essential repairs.”
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