Train passengers are set to get a desperately needed new footbridge at Teddington station in the new year.

Twickenham MP Vince Cable said South West Trains (SWT) had pledged to refurbish it in February, 2012.

However, he warned that SWT had previously delayed the date and said he would be “very critical indeed” if it did not commit to starting the work.

Dr Cable said: “The footbridge has been in appalling condition for years with peeling paintwork, missing glazing and filthy windows. Along with the three ward councillors, I have repeatedly pressed SWT to carry out improvements.

“I am now told that scaffolding will go up in mid February 2012. The work will involve full decoration and refurbishment of the footbridge both internally and externally together with replacement of the windows with ones which are easier to maintain.”