Accessibility That Works: Getting Station Doors Right Under 2025 Rules

Rail stations are among the most dynamic public spaces in the UK, and their entrances serve as the first real test of how inclusive, efficient, and safe the passenger experience will be. In 2025, the Accessibility NTSN (National Technical Specification Notice), enforced by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) via operators’ Accessible Travel Policies, brings increased expectations around door design and installation.

Getting the doors right now means staying ahead of legal requirements, streamlining passenger flow, and enhancing accessibility for all.

Compliance Checklist

Key Standards & Requirements

Under the updated accessibility framework, pedestrian doors in stations must meet the following criteria:

Clear opening width: Approximately 1000 mm for external or entrance lobby doors to comfortably accommodate wheelchairs, buggies, and groups.
Activation control height: Touchless sensors or push buttons must be mounted 800–1100 mm above floor level for universal reachability.
Low-force, predictable operation: Doors should open with minimal physical effort and move consistently without unexpected jerks.
Safety compliance (BS EN 16005): Systems must incorporate obstacle detection, monitored sensors, and fail-safe mechanisms.
Maintenance regime: Doors need an annual inspection by a competent technician, with a maintained logbook and rapid fault resolution to preserve safety and compliance.

Why Automatic Sliding Doors Often Prevail in Stations

Automatic sliding doors are an excellent match for station environments - ideal for main entrances:

Uninterrupted flow: Unlike swing doors, there’s no projecting leaf to block or disrupt movement.
Wide, accessible openings allow easy access for mobility aids, luggage, and prams.
Climate control & energy efficiency: Doors open only when needed, reducing heat loss or cool air escape.
Safety-first design with motion sensors that prevent accidental closures on passengers.
Security and system integration: Can connect to access control, CCTV, and emergency systems.
Design adaptability, including telescopic, curved, or bi-parting versions to match architectural styles.

J Manny – South Wales & South West Specialists

For rail operators in South Wales or the South West, J Manny offers unmatched installation, servicing, and compliance support for station doors.

What they bring to the table:

Complete door installation services, from sliding to swing, folding to roller shutters.
A layered maintenance model, including preventative servicing, plus 24/7 breakdown cover with rapid response and spare-parts-ready vehicles.
In-house expertise, from fabricating bespoke components to managing projects, ensuring seamless execution.
Full BS EN 16005 compliance, complete with logbook documentation for legal and safety peace of mind.
Specialised local knowledge, perfectly suited to public-sector needs like station platforms and ticket halls.

Key Benefits & Spec-Level Compliance Checklist

Why combine accessibility standards, sliding-door advantages, and a trusted installer like J Manny:

Ensures legal compliance with UK accessibility standards.
Delivers faster passenger flow during busy periods.
Enhances comfort and energy efficiency in concourses.
Enables safer and more secure operation through advanced sensor systems.
Minimises downtime, thanks to robust support and maintenance.

Compliance Checklist (for Specifiers & Facility Managers)

Clear opening width ≥ 1000 mm
Activation controls positioned at 800–1100 mm above floor
Low-force, smooth, consistent door movement
Full compliance with BS EN 16005 safety standard
Annual inspection by skilled technician; logbook updated
Fast response for repairs and system faults

About J Manny

J Manny provides professional installation, servicing, and maintenance of automatic doors across South Wales and the South West UK. With over 20 years’ experience, we specialise in sliding, swing, folding, and roller-shutter doors for commercial, public, and transport-sector clients. Each project is managed end to end, from initial consultation and design through to installation, testing, and aftercare. This holistic approach ensures that every system not only functions flawlessly on day one, but continues to deliver long-term value, efficiency, and safety.