Work is now complete on a £3m project to raise the platforms at Dunkeld and Birnam station, significantly improving accessibility and safety for passengers at the historic Perthshire stop.
The upgrade, delivered by Network Rail, involved increasing the height of both platforms to reduce a large step between trains and the platform edge – a challenge for many passengers including those with mobility needs, luggage or young children.
To mark the completion of the project, a celebratory event was held at the station on Friday 6 June, attended by railway and community representatives.
John Swinney MSP said: “I am very pleased to see the completion of this important upgrade at Dunkeld and Birnam station. I have long supported calls for improved accessibility at the station, and this investment is a significant step forward.
“The raised platforms will make a real difference for passengers - particularly those with mobility needs, families with young children and passengers with luggage. It’s a practical improvement that enhances safety and comfort, and I’m grateful to all involved for their collaborative efforts in delivering it.”
Platform 1 has been rebuilt along a 150-metre stretch, while platform 2 saw a rebuild and extension along a 120-metre stretch. These new raised platform lengths allow passengers to board trains safely and comfortably.
The improvements are part of a wider programme of work by Network Rail to enhance accessibility across Scotland’s Railway.
Liam Sumpter, managing director of Network Rail Scotland, said: “This project shows what we can achieve when we work together with local communities. Raising the platforms at Dunkeld and Birnam might seem like a simple change, but it has a huge impact, making the station safer, more accessible, and welcoming.
“We’re incredibly proud of the work delivered, helping ensure no one is left behind when it comes to using the railway. It’s part of our commitment to improving stations across Scotland, with Dunkeld and Birnam now serving as a brilliant example of that work in action.”
The project was developed in collaboration with the Dunkeld and Birnam Community Station Group, with significant input to ensure the improvements met local needs.
Jess Pepper, co-coordinator of the community station group, added: “After many years, it is extremely welcome that both platforms at Dunkeld and Birnam Station have been raised to be more accessible to those who would like to travel by train to and from this beautiful part of Scotland.
“This has been a positive collaboration with Network Rail, Story and the local community to improve Scotland’s Railway - with significant input from local children and the wider community to ensure that all needs are met with better lighting, signage and benches too.”
Temporary changes to ScotRail and LNER services during the construction period have also now ended, with a full timetable restored to the station.
Image credits: Network Rail
