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Thursday 20 Jul 2023

Network Rail reveals plans to provide step-free access at Anniesland station

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Network Rail plans to improve accessibility for passengers at Anniesland station by installing a new lift system.

Lifts will be installed at street level on either side of the railway bridge on Great Western Road, making it easier for people with impaired mobility or those travelling with luggage, children, or bicycles to access the platforms.

The existing footbridge over the railway at platform level will remain in situ. The works, expected to begin in September, will include the removal of the current advertising hoardings, installation of two lift towers and associated apparatus, and a linkspan path to connect the lift to each platform

In addition to providing direct access to the station platforms from Great Western Road, the design will improve the exterior of Anniesland station by creating a brighter and more recognisable access point.

Michael McArthur, Network Rail’s project manager for the accessibility work, said: “The lifts being installed at the station deliver modern standards of access for those travelling to or from Anniesland daily and will improve the travelling experience for passengers.

“The new lifts and linkspan will help everyone in the community access services at Anniesland station easily as part of our efforts to enable even more people to travel by train.

“Delivering step-free access at stations to open up our network is one important way in which we are improving the overall experience of travelling on Scotland’s railway”.

These works are supported by the government's Access for All scheme, with the Department for Transport identifying the station as one that would benefit from the funding. 

Network Rail submitted a notification for prior approval for the work, which does not require a planning application, to Glasgow City Council.

In a letter submitted with their notice, Network Rail outlined that the street-level lift entrance will be offset from the pavement with a glazed canopy and an illuminated vertical concrete plinth sign with the station name.  Further, careful consideration had been made in relation to the visual impact of the design, including using red and grey brick to tie in with the existing structure.

There are no changes proposed to the stair entrances on either side of the underbridge

Work is expected to be completed within a year. Those living near the station will receive letters outlining key dates and milestones.

And prior to the project starting, Network Rail is organising a public information event to offer those interested the chance to ask questions directly to members of the project team.

This will take place on Tuesday, August 15 at Netherton Community Centre (Netherton Road, Glasgow, G13 1AX) from 4pm - 7pm.