Dartford MP, Gareth Johnson, has welcomed plans to build a £2 million footbridge at Stone Crossing Station.

Network Rail is planning to replace the level crossing at the station with a new footbridge.

They aim to hold a consultation on the plans next summer, if it gets the go ahead, the bridge, estimated to cost around £2 million, could be in place by 2017.

In July, commuters called on Network Rail to invest in a revamp as numbers using the station are expected to grow. They claimed rail bosses had promised improvements, including a footbridge, six years ago.

In October, Network Rail promised to extend the hours the level crossing is manned at the station after safety fears were raised about people going across the line.

Commuter, Charlotte Woodley, said: “There are a number of issues that can make using the station difficult, but above all we need the footbridge that was promised to us to be built.

“Lots of us feel that the crossing is a potential safety hazard and the alternative route when the crossing gate is closed is not practical for pushchairs or anyone with a mobility problem.

“Travelling to and from London each day, we see new bridges have been constructed at many stations but Stone still has not got one.”

As well as the bridge, Southeastern has agreed to install a card-only ticket machine next year.

Kent County Councillor Penny Cole is planning to install a new bike rack at the station and after much discussion, BT have confirmed they will remove the out-of-use phone box next to the station next year.

Mr Johnson, said: “Not that long ago the very future of Stone Crossing Station was questioned but today services from the station have been secured for the foreseeable future and also some major enhancements are on their way.

“It is important we invest in the future of Stone Crossing for the benefit of all local residents. The bridge will reduce safety risks, a new ticket machine is long overdue and the derelict phone box seems only to be used as a public urinal.”

A Network Rail spokesman, said: “Every time a footpath or a road meets the railway, there is a risk and it is our aim to reduce this as much as we can. We have closed almost 1,000 level crossings in the last five years and we know the safest level crossing is a closed one.

“We believe this proposed footbridge will offer the safest option for the community to cross the railway and look forward to sharing our plans with people in the area.”