Benefits of Platform Lifts Recognised By New Government Scheme

The government’s Access for All scheme has provided funding for improvement work to be carried out on Leyland station in Lancashire. This will help to enhance step-free access at the station for passengers with disabilities and those with pushchairs and luggage. The work is part of an overall commitment from the government to bring facilities at train stations and other public areas up to a higher standard.

The work at Leyland station has been made possible by a £4.5 million investment through the Access for All scheme. The work has now begun on the project, which will include the installation of three new lifts for passengers, three new staircases, an access ramp and a new footbridge. This is the type of work that is needed at stations across the country to make access much easier for all passengers.

Access for All

The Access for All scheme is a major programme of work that will see improvements in access at stations nationwide. This will enable more stations to provide step-free access, where passengers can get from the entrance to the platforms easily. This isn’t only an advantage to those with disabilities and mobility difficulties; it also benefits passengers with heavy luggage, those with children and the elderly.

This scheme is a central part of the government’s strategy to boost access to our railways. The fund has been specifically designed to enhance the infrastructure so that more people are able to access the rail system. The funding has already improved facilities at around 150 key stations, and the government has pledged an additional £100 million to continue the programme of works up until 2019. Leyland is one of the stations that was chosen to benefit from this extra funding.

Benefits of Platform Lifts

Platform lifts are extremely useful for stations and other transport hubs. They offer easy and convenient access to different levels and can be used by passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. The installation of these lifts at train stations significantly improves the facilities available for all these groups of people. They offer audible tones to indicate that the doors are opening or closing. This makes them safer to use for those with vision problems.

However, these lifts are not just convenient for disabled people. Many of those who use the rail network every day have had to struggle using stairs and escalators, particularly those carrying luggage or having to negotiate stations with children. The new lifts can also be used by these groups to improve access to platforms.

The work surrounding the Access for All programme has recognised the importance of platform lifts in enhancing accessibility for everyone. The work that has been and will be carried out at train stations will really make a difference to the lives of those who have found accessing stations difficult. It will open up more opportunities for them and make their lives significantly easier.