Work will start on Monday 30 October and will run until the completion of the project in summer next year.

The existing footbridge will be removed and replaced with a new accessible bridge with lifts to platforms 1 and 2. As part of the project, the existing footbridge will close to the public from Monday 20 November before the new bridge is installed in spring 2024.

Train services will continue to operate as normal through the station but there will be some temporary changes to access during construction.

Amanda Naughton, Network Rail’s scheme project manager for Dumfries station’s accessibility improvements, said: “We are pleased to begin the construction phase of our project to install a new bridge with lifts at Dumfries station.

“The interest from the community in the project has been great and we are delighted to have developed a bridge design that compliments the station’s unique architecture but improves the passenger experience and delivers modern standards of access for those travelling to or from Dumfries.

“Over the coming months there will be a significant amount of construction activity at the station and we thank passengers and those working and living nearby for their patience as we deliver these essential improvements.”

The works are being carried out to make it easier for those with limited mobility or travelling with children, luggage or cycles to move between the platforms.

Throughout the project, space within the platform 1 car park will be restricted. There will also be some temporary changes to access on the platform 2 car park during the bridge removal and installation phase.

Those living near the station will receive letters outlining key dates and milestones as the project progresses.