WORK on a £5million project to improve accessibility at Port Glasgow station is set to start next month.
Network Rail install a new footbridge and lifts, plus ramped access to the main station entrance at Princes Street will also be introduced.
The measures are all designed to make it easier for people with impaired mobility or those travelling with luggage, children or cycles to access the platforms.
The new footbridge, positioned opposite the car park and ramped entrance off Willison’s Lane, will include access to and from the park and ride car park at Highholm Avenue. Lifts will provide step-free access.
Preparatory work is set to start in February with construction expected to begin in May. Installation of the bridge and lifts is scheduled to be completed towards the end of the year.
Michael McArthur, Network Rail’s project manager for the work, said: “The bridge being delivers modern standards of access for those travelling to or from Port Glasgow on a day-to-day basis and will improve the travelling experience for passengers.
“The new bridge and lifts will help everyone in the community access services at Port Glasgow station easily as part of our efforts to enable even more people to travel by train.
“Delivering step-free access at stations to open up our network is one important way in which we are improving the overall experience of travelling on Scotland’s railway.”
The project has been funded by the Access for All (AfA) scheme, with contributions from Inverclyde Council.
Councillor Michael McCormick, Inverclyde Council’s convener of environment and regeneration, said: “This is an important development to help make Port Glasgow Railway Station more accessible, particularly for wheelchair users, people with mobility issues, and families with prams.
“It is the busiest railway station in Inverclyde so should be fit-for-purpose for everyone who uses it, whether that is commuters or visitors arriving here to discover what Port Glasgow and Inverclyde has to offer.
“I’m delighted that the council is working alongside Network Rail and partners to deliver this substantial infrastructure project that will be of huge benefit to the people of Port Glasgow and wider Inverclyde.”
Network Rail will be attending Port Glasgow West Community Council’s next public meeting, providing an information session, at Port Glasgow Town Hall, at 7pm on Monday 30 January.
Tommy Rodger, secretary for Port Glasgow West Community Council, said: “On behalf of people with mobility challenges, our Port Glasgow West Community Council welcomes Network Rail’s plans to build a bridge that will provide access to both platforms within the station for all passengers.”
