EMR to Extend Weekend Restrictions on Nottingham Station Footbridge to reduce violence and abuse

East Midlands Railway (EMR) is set to limit access to station platforms from Nottingham’s footbridge during weekends, following evidence that similar measures have significantly improved safety.

The decision follows analysis showing that an earlier expansion of access restrictions led to a marked fall in incidents involving both passengers and staff. In August, EMR widened its overnight controls, closing platform access from the footbridge between 7pm and 6am each day, instead of the previous 11pm to 5am window.

Building on those results, the operator will now close platform access from 7pm on Fridays until 6am on Mondays. The weekend restrictions will come into effect from 6 February.

EMR, which is part of Transport UK, reported a 45 per cent reduction in assaults and incidents of abuse during periods when the restrictions were in place. The data also showed a 38 per cent decrease in slips, trips and falls.

Despite the changes, the footbridge will remain open as a public right of way at all times, ensuring continued pedestrian access between Station Street and Queen’s Road, including onward connections to the tram network. EMR has also confirmed it can temporarily reopen the gates during major events, peak crowding or emergency situations.

The operator said directing passengers through the ticket gates has also helped reduce fare evasion, contributing to lower revenue losses and easing pressure on public funding, while improving overall station security and the customer experience.

Following feedback from passengers, nearby businesses and community groups, EMR has introduced clearer signage, improved wayfinding and updated guidance for those accessing taxi ranks and local services around the station.

EMR said it will continue working closely with partners to manage the impact of the changes and ensure appropriate mitigation remains in place.

Philippa Cresswell, customer experience director at East Midlands Railway, said the operator’s priority was to keep Nottingham station safe and welcoming for everyone. She added that the approach had always been guided by evidence, and the latest data demonstrated the need for further action to improve safety and tackle fare evasion, which ultimately affects taxpayers.