Passengers at Warwick station are now benefitting from significantly improved access to rail services, following the completion of a major infrastructure upgrade that has delivered step-free access between platforms.
The new lifts, which connect platforms 1 and 2 via the station’s subway, officially opened to the public on 6 October. The project marks a key milestone in Network Rail’s ongoing commitment to inclusive travel through its Access for All programme.
Delivered by Network Rail in partnership with contractor Murphy, the scheme has been underway since spring 2024. It aims to transform the station experience for passengers with reduced mobility, families with prams, and those travelling with heavy luggage.
The project faced unexpected challenges early on. Initial works began in 2023 but were halted after the discovery of historic building foundations—believed to be remnants of the original 1852 station, which was destroyed by fire in 1894. This led to a significant redesign of the scheme.
In addition to the installation of two new lifts, the station’s subway has undergone a comprehensive upgrade, including improved handrails and enhanced lighting to support passenger safety and comfort.
Martin Colmey, operations director for Network Rail’s Central route, acknowledged the complexity of the works:
“Installing lifts at Victorian stations is complex and challenging but the railway should be accessible by all, which is why upgrades like this are so important for passengers and local communities.
Access for All schemes, like these new lifts at Warwick, are helping to make rail journeys easier for everyone, meaning more people can travel by train more often.
This upgrade has taken some time, and I thank passengers and local residents for their patience while the work took place.”
Michael Stewart, commercial and customer strategy director at Chiltern Railways, echoed the sentiment:
"We would like to thank customers for their patience during disruption as Network Rail has worked to improve access to the platforms at Warwick station.
The opening of the lifts will improve accessibility which is vital for our customers travelling through the station."
The redesign required significant engineering work, including the driving of 56 piles to a depth of 17 metres and the excavation of hundreds of tonnes of earth to stabilise underground conditions. The new subway was constructed using 40 precast concrete panels, manufactured off-site and transported in, with the lift shafts craned into position earlier this year.
This upgrade not only enhances the passenger experience but also reflects the rail industry's broader commitment to accessibility, heritage-sensitive engineering, and collaborative delivery.
Image credit: Network Rail
