Media centre

Wednesday 19 Dec 2007

ACCESS FOR ALL AT WEST BYFLEET

Region & Route:

| Southern: Wessex

| Southern

West Byfleet station is to be made more accessible to all who use it thanks to work commissioned by Network Rail. The extensive programme of work started this month (December) and will provide step-free access from the station entrance to and between all platforms. A new footbridge is being constructed with two lifts and stairs. Both the new lifts will be fully Disability Discrimination Act compliant and fitted with closed-circuit television and telephone links. Network Rail is managing and delivering the improvements, which are funded by the Department for Transport’s (DfT) "Access for All" fund. David Pape, Network Rail Route Director, said: “When completed in spring 2008, these essential new facilities will make station and platform access much easier for all passengers, including people with disabilities, those carrying heavy luggage and parents with prams. "We are working closely with South West Trains and other stakeholders to make sure that rail services and station access are maintained during the construction of these accessibility improvements.”

Paul Bentley, South West Trains’ Access and Integration Manager, added: "West Byfleet is a small but busy station and these works will make a big difference. Britain’s railways need to be accessible to as many people as possible and the improved access that the lifts will provide will go a long way to helping those people who use West Byfleet. We are grateful to Network Rail and the Department for Transport, who are committed to helping train operating companies make stations easier to use.”