Work is underway at Eridge station in East Sussex to provide step-free platform access, as part of a £1.9m accessibility project being delivered by Network Rail.
Delivered as part of the Department for Transport’s Access for All programme, the improvement works are intended to make the station much easier to use for Southern Rail passengers with mobility issues, older people and parents with young children.
A lift on Platform 1 will be installed as part of the £1.9m project, with capacity for 16 people.
The station entrance will also see the installation of an accessible ramp, leading to the ticket office.
Eridge station previously underwent a £1.8m upgrade in September 2020 to improve the station footbridge, while a further £500,000 was spent on a range of platform improvements which finished in January 2021.
Southern also completed a full refurbishment inside and out of the station buildings, including a new heritage-style waiting room and additional seating.
Shaun King, Sussex Route Director for Network Rail, said: “We strive to put passengers at the heart of our approach to running the railway, and with these further improvements, this complements the work we have completed at Eridge station to give better journeys to the people who need to travel on this route.
“We are working closely with contractors to keep disruption to a minimum and I’d like to thank passengers in advance for their patience and understanding whilst the work takes place.”
Southern Customer Services Director Chris Fowler, added: “We want to create a more accessible and inclusive railway, where everyone has the confidence to travel no matter what their need for assistance.
“I’m delighted that the bid we made for a lift at Eridge was successful and that work is now under way. It will make such a difference to the community.
“The lift will be the icing on the cake for Eridge where we have been working with our fabulous community partners and Network Rail to improve the station with heritage features, celebrating its history and role in village life.
“I would like to pay tribute to the parish council, the SCRP and Railway Heritage Trust.”
