Media centre

Friday 27 Feb 2015

Passengers in Machynlleth set to get easier access

Region & Route:

| Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

| Wales & Western

Glyn Davies, MP for Montgomeryshire, visited Machynlleth station to see how Network Rail is increasing accessibility to give passengers a better travelling experience.

The installation of a new stepped-footbridge with two lifts will help passengers cross more easily between platforms.

Step-free access at the station will not only be of benefit to passengers with reduced mobility, but also to those travelling with children or heavy luggage or who simply find stairs a struggle.

James O’Gorman, Network Rail’s project sponsor for the scheme, said: “The new footbridge and lifts at Machynlleth station will make travelling by train easier and more accessible for passengers.

“We are working hard to make sure that this project is completed with minimal disruption and that a normal train service continues to operate throughout.

“This is an important part of our work to build a bigger and better railway for Wales, with a record investment over the next five years to cater for increasing demand and transform the railway in Wales.”

Glyn Davies, MP for Montgomeryshire, said: “I’m delighted to see first-hand how Machynlleth station is being improved for local people.

“Step-free access will make a real difference to passengers and make it easier for people to get to work, or travel to see friends and family.

“This will give Machynlleth a station that is open and accessible for all.”

The Department for Transport and Welsh Government funded Access For All scheme is a £12m programme which will also deliver access improvements to Radyr, Llandaf, Chirk and Ystrad Mynach stations.

As part of the scheme, the number of disabled car parking spaces will also be doubled from two to four.

Members of the public who have questions about the programme should call our 24-Hour National Helpline on 08457 11 41 41.