Major accessibility improvements are on the way at Pokesdown station, with work set to begin on the installation of two new passenger lifts that will provide step-free access to both platforms for the first time.
The project is being delivered through a partnership between South Western Railway (SWR), Network Rail Wessex and the Department for Transport, with funding provided by all three organisations. Once completed, the scheme will transform accessibility at the station by converting the existing disused goods lift shafts into modern customer lifts.
Construction is scheduled to begin in October 2026, with the station expected to become fully step-free by early 2028.
The investment represents a significant milestone in efforts to make the railway more inclusive, removing barriers for passengers with reduced mobility, parents travelling with pushchairs and customers carrying heavy luggage.
Alongside the lift installation, several enhancements have already been delivered at the station, including a thorough clean of the station entrance and façade stonework, graffiti removal, a deep clean of the booking hall and the installation of a new interactive information totem.
Further upgrades are also being considered as part of AFC Bournemouth's stadium expansion plans. Subject to final approvals, these improvements would include two additional station entrance doors and wider access routes between the booking hall and footbridge, supported by external funding contributions.
While construction is underway, passengers can expect to see increased activity around the station, including delivery vehicles, specialist equipment and construction teams. Temporary hoardings will be installed to safely separate customers from work areas.
Importantly, Pokesdown station will remain open throughout the project. Some work will need to take place overnight, at weekends and during planned rail closures to minimise disruption and keep services operating safely.
Industry Leaders Welcome Accessibility Investment
Lawrence Bowman, Managing Director of South Western Railway & Network Rail Wessex said:
"This is a hugely significant moment for Pokesdown and for everyone who has worked so hard to make step-free access a reality.”
“I’d particularly like to recognise local stakeholders, whose determination and persistence have helped keep this project moving forward and firmly on the agenda.
Customers, including people with reduced mobility, parents with buggies and those travelling with luggage, have faced barriers when using this station. These new lifts will open up the railway to more people and create a station that is welcoming, accessible and fit for the future.
We’re proud to be working alongside the Department for Transport and local partners to deliver an improvement that will make a lasting difference to the community.”
Tom Hayes MP, Member of Parliament for Bournemouth East said:
"Pokesdown will finally be step-free in early 2028, with work getting underway this year. For so many, this matters so much.
I grew up caring for disabled parents, cut off from society, and want everyone to have equal rights to our railways.
It’s been an honour to share local people’s stories with the Treasury and these stories helped to secure the nearly £3m necessary to start work on making Pokesdown step free.
I’m delighted to continue working with Great British Railways and thank everyone who supports this project.”
Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill CBE, Minister for Rail at the Department for Transport said:
"New lifts at Pokesdown station will give local passengers the step-free access they’ve long called for, helping more people travel with independence and confidence.
“With this Government’s support, South Western Railway and Network Rail are working together to get this important project moving, which is exactly the kind of joined-up approach we’re building through Great British Railways.”
Image credit: South Western Railway
