In a new AJ column by planner and architect Hana Loftus, of Colchester-based HAT Projects, Loftus takes aim at the blind alley created for passengers by the new steel-walled footbridge at her local station, Marks Tey, in Essex.The bridge, technically a refurbishment byan unnamed architect of an existing concrete bridge, is now a 2m-high grey trough, which cuts off pedestrian views of the tracks and platforms an oppressive experience speaking to an all-pervasive culture of that will do in Britain, Loftus argues.She writes: Good designers have designed beautiful, functional and safe footbridges that are being installed just a few stops down the line.AdvertisementEvery policy statement, every plan, every strategy states its aim is to ensure sustainable, high quality, people-centred design.However, a severe cognitive dissonance exists in Britain between these laudable aims, and what happens in reality, Loftus argues. Cost and convenience won out and the local community in this semi-rural area was de facto treated as second class.In a statement provided to the AJ, Network Rail said its involvement in the project was limited to specific areas within its responsibility such as a safe power supply, adding that Greater Anglia had led on design, development, and delivery.A spokesperson for train operator Greater Anglia said: This project reflects the careful balancing act required in railway infrastructure: ensuring safety, meeting technical constraints, maintaining cost efficiency and enhancing accessibility.It is important to recognise that the Marks Tey footbridge refurbishment and repairs fully comply with British Standards, Eurocodes and Network Rails rigorous safety and design requirements. Designed by a chartered architect with extensive railway experience, every decision was made to ensure safety, durability, and functionality while adhering to industry regulations.AdvertisementThe statement went on to say that design options for the footbridge had been limited by overhead lines and the retention of existing trestles.Statement by train operator Greater AngliaThis project reflects the careful balancing act required in railway infrastructure: ensuring safety, meeting technical constraints, maintaining cost efficiency, and enhancing accessibility.It is important to recognise the Marks Tey footbridge refurbishment and repairs fully comply with British Standards, Eurocodes and Network Rails rigorous safety and design requirements.Designed by a chartered architect with extensive railway experience, every decision was made to ensure safety, durability, and functionality while adhering to industry regulations.The suggestion that the design disregards best practices overlooks key constraints. This was a bridge deck repair rather than a full reconstruction, meaning architectural flexibility was limited due to the retention of existing trestles.Additionally, Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) clearances were extremely tight, preventing the use of perforated panels, which would have posed an obstruction and breached current safety standards. The choice of high solid parapets was not a careless oversight but a necessary measure to ensure compliance and public safety. While discussions on improving design are always welcome, dismissing the project without considering these factors does not provide a fair or complete assessment.Beyond aesthetics, the refurbishment has delivered tangible improvements. Accessibility compliance has been enhanced, slip-resistance on the stairs and deck has been upgraded, lighting has been improved, and safety has been increased in relation to the OLE. Overall, these repairs significantly improve the bridges functionality and user experience.