A significant accessibility upgrade at Sevenoaks station has reached a key milestone, with the lift serving platforms 3 and 4 now back in operation. The project, led by South Eastern Railway, is part of a wider investment programme to modernise station facilities and improve step-free access across the network.
The reopening, effective from 24 June 2026, restores access between the car park, concourse and platforms 3 and 4. However, attention has now shifted to the next phase, with work underway to replace the lift serving platforms 1 and 2.
Strategic Investment in Accessibility
The lift replacement programme, which began in July 2025, is due for completion by winter 2026. With more than 3.1 million passenger journeys annually, Sevenoaks is one of Kent’s busiest stations, and the upgrade addresses ongoing reliability issues with ageing infrastructure.
The wider programme reflects a strategic push to improve accessibility and passenger experience across the South Eastern network, particularly for customers with reduced mobility.
Operational Continuity Maintained
Importantly, while accessibility is temporarily reduced in certain areas:
- Services from platforms 3 and 4 remain unaffected.
- Routes travelling away from London continue as normal.
- The timetable across the station is unchanged.
Passengers are encouraged to speak with station teams or contact assisted travel services for tailored guidance throughout the upgrade period.
Industry Perspective
David Davidson, Chief Operating Officer at South Eastern Railway, said:
“We are pleased to reopen the lift for platforms 3 and 4 and we thank passengers for their patience.
“We know the next phase of works replacing the lift on platforms 1 and 2 will cause inconvenience, and we’re very sorry for the impact it will have on customers’ journeys, particularly those who need step-free access.
“However, the current lifts at Sevenoaks station need to be replaced so that we can continue to ensure that customers are able to access the station without needing to use the stairs.
“We thank our passengers for their patience and cooperation as we work to deliver a more reliable and accessible station.”
Image credit: Network Rail
