Network Rail have finished the £3m accessibility focused upgrade for Northallerton station which now features lifts to support passengers changing platforms
The major upgrade comes as part of the Department for Transport funded Access for All Scheme which intends to create obstacle-free and accessible routes from station entrances right through to their platforms.
The scheme has now seen Northallerton station benefit from new lifts for platforms 1 and 2 which will offer support for passengers with limited mobility, pushchairs, bikes or luggage enabling them to use the station with greater independence.
Rail Minister, Wendy Morton, said:
“I am pleased to support the remarkable accessibility upgrades at Northallerton Station with £3 million from our Access for All programme.
“Ensuring all stations are enjoyed by everyone is central to our Plan for Rail, as we continue to deliver a more efficient, cost-effective and accessible railway system for all passengers.”
Network Rail has also made key improvements to the subway, which runs underneath the tracks to connect the two platforms. Teams have installed new stairs, handrails and flooring, and will be repainting the tunnel to improve passengers' experience.
Sarah Reid, East Coast Route Director for Network Rail, said:
“Knowing that passengers will now be able to enjoy step-free access at Northallerton station is brilliant. This will make a real difference to people's journeys and allow more people to enjoy travelling by train.
“We've worked with TransPennine Express to deliver the most we can with the least impact on passengers. I'd like to thank people for their support throughout the project and look forward to seeing people benefit from these major improvements.”
TransPennine Express who manage Northallerton station has also funded £85,000 towards the projects which have seen further improvements such as handrails, platform work, fencing and painting being carried out.
Chris Nutton, Major Projects Director for TransPennine Express, said:
“The installation of lifts at Northallerton is brilliant news for customers and will make the station even more accessible, giving more people freedom to take the train and visit destinations across the North and into Scotland.
“We want to thank customers for their patience while these important works have been taking place.”
Northallerton station is located between Darlington and Thirsk and is a key connection on the East Coast Main Line and sees approximately 1,700 passengers each day and providing important travel opportunities both in and around North Yorkshire and connectivity to locations further afield.
