30.09.13
£1.8m Access for All scheme for Carlisle
Carlisle station will benefit from a £1.8m accessibility scheme, Network Rail has announced. New goods lifts and the reopening of a disused subway will increase access, with work due to begin in October.
As part of the Access for All scheme, funded by the DfT, the work will see two goods lift shafts refurbished with new lifts installed and a refurbished subway to provide access between the two.
Work will include a new fire escape, lighting and closed circuit TV, as well as a passenger help point. The project is expected to be complete by the end of February 2014.
Martin Frobisher, Network Rail area director, said: “These vital improvements to Carlisle station will make life easier for everyone to use the train, especially those with heavy luggage, reduced mobility or with small children. The new facilities will help Carlisle station handle the increasing numbers of passengers who are using it every day.”
Paul Nairn, station manager at Carlisle, said: “Access via the footbridge to platforms one to three is a significant issue for passengers with mobility issues, children or big bags. The new lifts and subway will provide a much smoother experience for them and we’re really excited that work to install them is going ahead.
“With the tremendous growth in passenger numbers we’ve seen at Carlisle Station, this work to improve access and ensure the journey to the train is hassle-free is vital.”
Rail Minister Norman Baker MP added: “Improvements like these make a real difference to those using the railways. Opening up access at stations and providing step-free routes gives all passengers, including those with disabilities and parents with young children, greater access to employment and social opportunities.”
Deputy leader of Carlisle City Council, Cllr Elsie Martlew, said: “This is really good news for passengers. Travel is difficult for some at the best of times and improvements for mobility and accessibility must be welcomed. In the past I have seen people struggling to manage and these changes will obviously make their journeys a bit easier.
“Working with our Heritage Officer has ensured that the material changes are in keeping with the Citadel Station, one of Carlisle's significant buildings.”
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