Govt allocates £37.5m to train station upgrades

Date: 7/12/2011

More than £37.5 million of government funding has been approved under a new Access for All Mid-Tier rail programme.

The initiative aims to make journeys easier for passengers by upgrading train stations up and down the country with new lifts, ramps and 'easy access humps' on platforms.

Toilets will also be made more accessible and it is hoped the improvements will be of particular benefit to the elderly, disabled and those with prams.

Rail Minister Norman Baker said getting from the station entrance on to the train can often be "the hardest part of [the] trip" for such individuals.

Some of the stations set to be upgraded include Crystal Palace, Hampstead Heath, Stratford-upon-Avon and Stevenage.

"Despite the need to reduce the deficit, we are committed to improving access to stations across the country as this can make a huge difference to people's lives," Mr Baker added.

Another station due to receive an upgrade is East Croydon and work to remove an old Royal Mail conveyor belt ready for the introduction of a new footbridge will begin on Christmas Day.

Posted by Mary Treen