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Friday 13 Aug 2010

WORKS STARTS TO MAKE STAINES STATION MORE ACCESSIBLE FOR EVERYONE

Region & Route:

Southern: Wessex

| Southern

Construction work will start at Staines station on Monday 16 August to provide passengers with step-free access between the station entrance and the platforms, making the railway more accessible for everyone.

The project, which is part of the national Access for All programme, will include the installation of a new footbridge and two new lifts, plus improvements to lighting and CCTV, making it easier for passengers to move around the station. 

The work is expected to be completed in Spring 2011.

Richard O’Brien, Network Rail’s route director for Wessex, said: “Good rail links are vital for connecting people and businesses.  Passengers in Staines rely on rail for 2.7m journeys every year, reflecting its importance to the community and local economy.  Once finished, this investment will make a big difference for passengers, especially those with reduced mobility, small children or heavy luggage, and will make the station easier to use, safer and more accessible for everyone.” 

Malcolm Page, station development manager for South West Trains added: "We welcome the access improvement work that will benefit all our passengers at Staines station and make it easier for all to use the station safely and easily. This is the latest improvement scheme that will complement the new shop, toilet and waiting room."

The work has been planned to keep disruption for passengers and the community to a minimum. 

Network Rail is managing and delivering the accessibility improvements, which are being funded through the Department for Transport's (DfT) £370m Access For All scheme.