The pedestrian crossing at Wareham station in Dorset, which connects two halves of the town, is to be closed for up to four days due to electrical work.
This means that from Monday 12th January 2026, there will be no ground level pedestrian access across the railway line, including for wheelchair and pram users, while the rewiring of the gates takes place.
Temporary closure sign at the crossing
Only route for wheelchair users
The manned crossing, which costs Dorset Council £120,000 a year to run, has attracted a lot of controversy after attempts were made to close it.
However after protests from local residents including the actor Edward Fox, it was agreed in March 2025 it would remain operational, even after the current lease expires with Network Rail in 2038.
There is a footbridge with steps over the railway line but that can’t be used by prams or wheelchairs, and attempts to adapt it have proved impractical.
The only alternative is to travel over the narrow road bridge in a private vehicle, taxi, or bus.
Protestors successfully campaigned to keep the ground level crossing operational
When the ground level crossing is closed the only alternative for pedestrians is the footbridge and climbing the steps
“Reliability and safety”
A spokesperson for Dorset Council said:
“This work is about reliability and safety. Rewiring prevents potential system failures. It is not linked to any future plans regarding ground level access.
“Advance notice signs are on site. Dates may change at short notice if conditions require, but a signed pedestrian diversion will be in place during the closure.
“We know the stepped footbridge isn’t suitable for everyone. That’s why we’re keeping the closure as short as possible and scheduling crews to work efficiently to reopen the crossing quickly.
“Thank you for your patience while we carry out this essential maintenance.”
Wareham station’s brick footbridge
