The footbridge entrance to Twickenham train station is to remain open following a U-turn by the privatised rail company running the station.

South West Trains announced this week that the bridge would remain open, following a meeting between their representatives and Richmond Council.

MP Vincent Cable who has been campaigning to keep the bridge open said: "This is a very positive step forwards and just shows what a little bit of public pressure can achieve.

"All this to save a little money on entry gates which would not be necessary if a few more inspectors were employed carrying out spot checks."

A fortnight ago Brian Cox managing director of the rail company announced that better security from the installation of automatic ticket gates would mean the bridge would have to close and it was, in fact, shut on a trial basis in January.

But this week, following the meeting with the council, the company announced a U-turn, saying the bridge would remain open.

A company spokesman outlined the new proposal: "We still intend to install the automatic gates but will man the bridge entrance and keep it open. This will cost us money but it shows the level of commitment we have towards our customers."

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