Media centre

Friday 5 Apr 2019

Major project to improve accessibility at Lincolnshire railway station completed

Region & Route:

Eastern

Network Rail, in partnership with TransPennine Express and the Department for Transport, has successfully completed a major project to improve accessibility at Scunthorpe railway station through the installation of a new footbridge and two new lifts.

 

Network Rail, TransPennine Express and the Department for Transport have worked together on the project. The work means that a fully accessible route is now available from the station entrance to the platforms. Previously, those with additional access needs had to use the barrow crossing, a type of level crossing which can only be used with railway workers, to get to platform two. This facility was only available during hours when the station was staffed, however these improvements now mean that all passengers can reach both of the platforms at any time of day or night which opens up travel opportunities.

The project also saw upgrades to the CCTV and PA systems, as well as the installation of new lights and way finding signs.

Aidan Talbott, Principal Programme Sponsor for Network Rail, said: “We are committed to improving accessibility at railway stations and we are absolutely delighted that this project has now completed as we know it will bring huge benefits to station users and open up travel opportunities for passengers.

“We would like to thank all station users for their patience whilst this vital work took place and we look forward to passengers benefitting from these improvements.”

Transport Minister Nusrat Ghani said: "We are committed to improving the experience of disabled passengers across our network, which is why it is fantastic to see another station benefitting from our Access for All programme.

“So far, we have provided step-free, accessible routes at more than 200 stations, and we have committed a further £300m to extend the programme until at least 2024.”

Steve Lee, Head of Customer Experience for TransPennine Express, commented: “The addition of lifts at Scunthorpe station is excellent news for the thousands of customers that use it every year.

“This coupled with the other enhancements will provide a much easier, safer travelling experience for those using the station and improve accessibility.”

ENDS