Weekend platform access to be restricted after sharp fall in abuse at Nottingham station

East Midlands Railway has announced further restrictions on access to station platforms via a footbridge at weekends, after evidence showed a marked improvement in safety following an earlier extension of closures.

The operator, which is part of Transport UK, introduced tighter controls in August by limiting platform access through the footbridge between 7pm and 6am each day, extending the previous overnight restriction window. From February 6, those controls will be expanded to cover weekends, with access closing at 7pm on Fridays and reopening at 6am on Mondays.

According to EMR, analysis of incident data during the restricted periods showed a 45 per cent reduction in assaults and abuse directed at both staff and customers. The company also recorded a 38 per cent fall in slips, trips and falls, which it says supports the decision to widen the scope of the closures.

Despite the changes, the footbridge will remain open at all times as a public right of way, allowing pedestrians to continue crossing between Station Street and Queen’s Road. Access to nearby tram services will also be maintained.

EMR has confirmed it will retain flexibility to open the gates during major events, periods of heavy crowding or in emergency situations. Routing passengers through the ticket gates during restricted times is also intended to reduce fare evasion, which the company says helps protect public funds while improving station security and the overall customer experience.

Following earlier feedback from customers, local businesses and community groups, a number of practical measures have been introduced, including clearer signage, improved wayfinding and updated guidance for people accessing taxi ranks and nearby services. The operator said it will continue working with local partners to monitor the impact of the changes and ensure mitigation measures remain effective.

Philippa Cresswell, Customer Experience Director at East Midlands Railway, said:

“Our primary responsibility is to ensure Nottingham station remains a safe, accessible and welcoming place for all customers. When we started this project and began restricting access, we committed to taking a proportionate, evidence-led approach, and that data has shown us that further action must be taken. Restricting access at these times will improve safety both on our trains and at our stations. It will also protect against fare evasion – which is effectively taxpayers’ money.”

Image: East Midlands Railway