A major programme of renovations has begun at Harold Wood station, ahead of Crossrail services beginning to stop there in 2017.

The project will involve lengthening the platforms to make sure the new 200m trains will be properly accommodated, three new lifts to allow for step-free access to all platforms, and a new footbridge. The improvements are set for completion by the summer of 2016.

Councillor Robert Benham, the cabinet member for environment at Havering Council, said: “We are really pleased that work is starting on the Crossrail project and have been working with Crossrail to make sure that the work causes minimum disruption. These works mark the first step to exciting improvements at Harold Wood station and the arrival of Crossrail in the borough.”
Crossrail’s surface director Matthew White said the works had been planned in collaboration with the local authority to minimise any disruption to residents and regular travellers.