Headteachers have welcomed news a footbridge at North Sheen station will finally be built.

Network Rail caved in after years of relentless pressure from campaigners and this week agreed “in principle” funding for the Manor Road project.

MP for Richmond Park, Susan Kramer, who has been one of the driving forces lobbying the rail operator, said the bridge could be built this year but, as it requires a one-day closure of both the railway and the road, may not be in place until early 2010.

Richard Burke, headteacher at nearby Christ’s School, said: “It is exciting news and we are all grateful to everyone who campaigned for it.

“Obviously it will make things a lot safer for children going to and from school.

“It significantly helps reduce the risk of injuries because children do take risks.”

Penny Cox, headteacher at Holy Trinity CE Primary School, expressed her relief at the decision, claiming she had seen adults jumping the barrier to get across.

She said: “I think it will really help our school, it is a really positive thing.

“It will encourage parents to walk to school and improve the punctuality of the students.”

Ms Kramer said: “We’ve been crossing our fingers almost daily that we don’t see a serious accident when someone climbs over the barriers at North Sheen. It is a great relief to know Network Rail has taken concerns about safety seriously, and is to go ahead with the footbridge.”

A spokesman for Network Rail commented: “The proposed site of the bridge is next to the level crossing, on the opposite side of Manor Road to the station. We are now in the process of developing designs and planning a work schedule.

“We will then apply to Richmond Council for planning permission before the work can begin.”