WORKS to provide step-free access to trains at Barnt Green station will get underway next week.
Network Rail will start on-site preparations from Monday (February 3) marking the beginning of a project to build lifts on to the existing footbridge which links all four platforms.
The £7.5 million investment, will see three lifts constructed to improve accessibility to all trains at the station for the first time. Lift installation is expected to begin in spring and be completed by autumn.
As the site preparation begins, ground surveys will be carried out. Some sections of platforms one and two will need to be sectioned off so work can take place safely. Access to rail services will not be impacted.
Network Rail and West Midlands Railway say they are working closely to reduce disruption to passengers as much as possible. Car parking facilities will need to be reduced to accommodate the site compound but temporary disabled parking spaces will be created.
Neil Gaskin, programme manager for Network Rail Central route, said: “We know step-free access is eagerly awaited by the local community and we’re pleased to be getting started on this really important upgrade which will make journeys to and from the station much easier.
“There will be some changes in and around the station while we carry out the work and I am grateful for people’s patience.
“I am confident these short-term changes will be far outweighed by the long-term benefits this work will provide.”
Because of the changes at the station, passengers are advised to allow plenty of time for their journey.
Jonny Wiseman, customer experience director at West Midlands Railway, said: “Improving accessibility at our stations is a key priority for us, so we are pleased to support Network Rail as these vital works begin.
“The three new lifts will be a gamechanger for many of our passengers, offering step free access to all platforms for the first time.
“Nearly 300,000 journeys are made to and from Barnt Green each year, and with the recent introduction of our new trains on the Cross City line, we’re committed to improving the passenger experience from Barnt Green for all.”
