Johnstone Station in Renfrewshire has opened a new fully-accessible footbridge and lifts to passengers.
Network Rail say the new layout makes it easier for those with impaired mobility to get around the station, as well as those travelling with luggage, children or cycles. Whether heading towards Glasgow or the Ayrshire Coast, the new system will improve accessibility for all.
The footbridge takes users from the entrance right over the railway, while the new lifts in place can transport passengers down to platform level.
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Liam Sumpter, Route Director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “We are delighted to have completed this investment in Johnstone station and the new bridge and lifts will make the railway easily accessible to even more people in the local community.
“Scotland’s Railway is working closely with Transport Scotland to deliver access improvements at as many stations as possible so we can open up the network and create more travel choices for people across the country.”
The project is part of Network Rail’s commitment to being a greener, more efficient railway. Throughout Johnstone, they have donated and replanted trees removed from the platform gardens to MossEdge village.
The team used recycled construction materials, and carried out STEM sessions with pupils from nearby Auchenlodment Primary School.
Brian O’Hare, Contracts Manager for Story Scotland, who carried out the project on behalf of Network Rail, said: “The team worked around the clock to complete the scheme to improve access at Johnstone station.
“Collectively we are proud to deliver such an important upgrade which gives residents and passengers the availability of new lifts and a footbridge, meaning that disabled and wheelchair users; the elderly, families with prams and pushchairs; and the many others who find it difficult to access the railway, will have a much safer and easier time now.”
Funded by the Access for All scheme, the project is part of an ongoing investment in Scotland’s Railway to improve stations across the country for people with impaired mobility. Since its launch in 2006, Access for All has funded improvements at 25 stations with a further six currently due for upgrades.
At Croy, the upgrades are nearing completion - with both sites set for an official opening event in the coming weeks.
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