Three railway stations near Olympic Park 'to become step-free'

Date: 17/3/2010

Three railway stations in and around London are to receive access improvements as part of a new initiative to improve access for those with limited mobility during the 2012 Olympic Games.

Slough, Wembley Central and Hackney Central stations will all benefit from improvement works to make them step-free by the time the Olympic Games start.

The modifications are to be made as part of the government's Access for All programme.

Work at Hackney Central station will cost around £3.5 million and will involve the construction of a new bridge and two lifts.

Three lifts, meanwhile, will be installed at Wembley Central station, costing £2.2 million.

A total of £2.5 million has been earmarked for the installation of three lifts at Slough station.

Rail minister Chris Mole commented on the announcement: "Creating step-free access at these stations will be a massive help to those with limited mobility, making it easier for them to get to individual sports events.

"Travellers will continue to benefit from better access at these stations for many years after the Olympics."

Meanwhile, construction of the Olympic Park is well underway, with the Olympic stadium now reaching its full height of 60 metres, according to the Olympic Delivery Authority.