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Thursday 7 Sep 2023

Latest pictures show major milestone reached in improved accessibility at Walton-on-Thames station in Surrey

Region & Route:

Southern

| Southern: Wessex

Network Rail has successfully installed the main bridge span and supports connecting the two platforms at Walton-on-Thames, bringing the station closer to providing step-free access to both platforms.

The successful craning in of the main bridge span and supports follows the recent installation of the lifts and staircases. Other work that is taking place to improve accessibility and safety at the station includes the widening of platform one to accommodate the lift as well as the installation of new CCTV cameras for added security.

Work to improve accessibility at Walton-on-Thames station began in October 2022 and is expected to be completed in early 2024.

Once complete, this £6m programme of work will make it easier for customers with impaired mobility or those travelling with luggage, children or bicycles to navigate their way around the station and provide step-free access to all of the station’s platforms.

This project is funded through the Department for Transport’s (DfT) ‘Access for All’ scheme, which was launched in 2006 to address the issues faced by disabled passengers and passengers with mobility restraints (such as heavy luggage or pushchairs) when using railway stations in Great Britain.

The funding is used to create an obstacle free, accessible route from the station entrance to the platforms. This generally includes providing lifts or ramps, as well as associated works and refurbishment along the route.

Oma Megbele, Network Rail’s commercial scheme sponsor, said: “We’re always trying to do more for our customers, and we’re delighted to have reached this major milestone as part of the ‘Access for All scheme at Walton-on-Thames station, which will provide step-free access to both platforms.

“I’d like to thank customers for their patience whilst we continue making these important improvements to improve accessibility at stations and I like forward to seeing the completion of this work early next year which will provide more comfortable journeys for customers.”

Peter Williams, South Western Railway’s, customer and commercial director, commented: “It is fantastic to see this milestone reached as we get closer to complete step-free access at Walton-on-Thames station.

“We are committed to enhancing accessibility for customers across our network, and Walton-on-Thames is just one of the SWR stations benefiting from successful ‘Access for All’ bids.

“I thank customers for their patience while these improvements are carried out and trust they will see the real difference these investments will make.”