Access to platforms from a footbridge at Nottingham railway station will be stopped at weekends from February.

East Midlands Railway (EMR) said passengers will not be able to use the bridge to enter platforms on Saturdays and Sundays from February 6.

EMR say access is being restricted at weekends after data showed a recent extension of restrictions led to a significant reduction in assaults and abuse towards both staff and customers.

In August, EMR restricted access to platforms via the footbridge between 7pm and 6am each day, replacing the previous 11pm to 5am window. It soon restrict access on weekends, closing at 7pm on Friday and reopening on Monday at 6am. Starting from February 6.

The company will now further extend the restrictions to weekends after data showed a 45 per cent drop in assaults and abuse on staff and customers during the closure times. The company also recorded a 38 per cent reduction in slips, trips and falls.

Despite these changes, the footbridge will continue to serve as a public right of way 24/7, maintaining access between Station Street and Queen’s Road, including connections to the tram network.

EMR will also be able to open the gates during major events, times of crowding, or in response to emergencies.

EMR said it has introduced clearer signage and updated guidance for those accessing nearby taxi ranks and services.

Philippa Cresswell, Customer Experience Director at East Midlands Railway, said: “Restricting access at these times will improve safety both on our trains and at our stations. It will also protect against fare evasion – which is effectively taxpayers’ money.”