17.04.19
Rail industry launches new interactive accessibly map for UK rail stations
A new interactive map which lets passengers find out about accessibility at stations has been launched by the Rail Delivery Group (RDG) to help boost their confidence in train travel.
The ‘Access Map’ has information about all stations across the UK, allowing passengers to identify whether any station is accessible so they can plan their journeys in advance, according to their needs.
The interactive map displays whether stations have step free or partial step free access, what facilities are available at a station such as accessible toilets and changing places and where alternative accessible stations are for on-the-go planning.
The map, which the RDG developed in collaboration with the DfT and TOCs, can currently be accessed through computers, iPhones and Android smartphones and a dedicated app is expected to launch in the near future.
Transport accessibility minister, Nusrat Ghani, commented: “I am delighted to see this new interactive map launched, marking an important step towards our aim of providing disabled passengers with the information they need to travel independently – a key commitment in our Inclusive Transport Strategy.
“However, we know there is more to do, which is why earlier this month we announced the 73 stations across the country which will receive a share of £300 million Access for All funding to improve disabled access.”
Robert Nisbet, the director of regions and nations at the RDG, said the new map will help boost passengers’ confidence when they travel by train by eliminating the element of surprise and giving them reassurance.
He said: “We know we need to go further and the rail industry is driving bigger changes to make the railway accessible for everyone.
“We’re investing billions of pounds into thousands of more accessible carriages, developing an app to speed up booking assistance, and upgrading infrastructure to make stations across the country more accessible.”
Image credit - RuslanDashinsky