REFURBISHMENT work has started on two subways in Stanford-le-Hope which it’s hoped will improve the safety and experience for users.

The crossings, which both pass beneath the Manorway and link Thors Oak to Abbotts Hall Chase and Hardie Park to Silvertown Avenue will be repaved and resurfaced, painted, fitted with better lighting and have CCTV installed.

DP World London Gateway is funding the scheme of works which follows on from consultation with residents and Thurrock Council. FM Conway has been appointed to carry out the works.

The subway at Hardie Park closed last month and will remain closed till around June while the works are completed.

For the duration that the subway is closed, the best alternative pedestrian route from Hardie Park to Silvertown Avenue will be via Hardie Road, turning right into Southend Road, crossing beneath the Manorway and turning right into Abbotts Drive.

The Abbotts Hall Chase subway was closed on Wednesday, March 18 until the end of May.

During the time that underpass is closed, the best alternative pedestrian route will be via Abbotts Hall Chase, turning left into Corringham Road, crossing the Manorway at the pelican crossing before turning left into the footpath north of the Manorway.

Shane Hebb, Stanford-le-Hope West Ward Councillor, who has worked closely with London Gateway on planning the improvement works, said: “I am really pleased that the subways under The Manorway are being upgraded. This was made possible by financial contributions from DP World London Gateway, with whom I have worked closely, following extensive consultation with residents and neighbours in Stanford-le-Hope.

“When my step-daughter was at school, she had to use what can only be described as unpleasant. It is excellent that through consultation with residents, we have designed and are delivering a complete refresh of these subways.

“User safety has been our number one objective, and we will see lighting, floor surfaces and even CCTV installed to protect everybody as they travel to and from their destinations.

“Thank you to everyone who has made this a reality. This is an improvement in Stanford which was long overdue and is now happening. I am proud to have been part of this project.”

Julian Plescia, Head of Shared Services and Legal Compliance at DP World London Gateway, said: “We would like to thank the officers at Thurrock Council and, in particular, local councillor Shane Hebb.

“They have assisted us in carrying out consultation with the local community and ensuring that the needs of local people were considered during the design improvements process.

“These works will significantly improve the safety and amenity of users in addition to greatly enhancing local access.”