A multi-million-pound investment by Network Rail will see two new lifts installed in the existing subway at Warwick station as part of the Government’s Access for All scheme.
They will provide step-free access for passengers using platforms 1 and 2 for the first time. Work will start in January 2023 and is expected to be complete by the end of the year.
Elinor Weymouth, scheme project manager for Network Rail, said: “We’re really pleased to be delivering this important piece of work for passengers in Warwick which will see step-free access between platforms 1 and 2 for the first time.
“There will be some local disruption during the multi-million-pound upgrade which is why we’re holding an information event at the Warwick Arms Hotel so people can find out more. I’d urge anyone living or working nearby to come along and meet the project team so we can explain in person how this important work is making journeys better for passengers.”
Rail minister Huw Merriman said: “Train travel must be an option for everyone and delivering easy, stress-free journeys for all is at the heart of my plan for the railway.
“I’m delighted the passengers of Warwick are benefitting from our Access for All programme and the new upgrade will ensure those with additional needs are supported right from the start of their journey.”
While no train services will be affected by the station improvements, the subway between platforms 1 and 2 will have to be closed for the lifts to be installed. This means a six-minute diversionary route will be in place for passengers moving between each platform.
A compound for engineers will also be created in the station car park, taking several spaces out of use. The station’s customer toilets will also be temporarily relocated.
To explain more about the exciting plans and how the work could impact people, Network Rail is inviting residents and businesses to an information event between 3pm and 7pm on Monday 28 November at the Warwick Arms Hotel at 17 High Street, Warwick, CV34 4AT.
Network Rail is working closely with Chiltern Railways to cause the least possible disruption to passengers and the local community while work takes places throughout 2023.
Eleni Jordan, commercial and customer strategy director at Chiltern Railways, said: “We are delighted that step-free access between platforms at Warwick station is being installed. Alongside Network Rail, we will be in regular contact with local stakeholders and the wider community while these changes take place, as there will be some disruption while these works are completed.
“When the lift installations are complete, it will be a significant improvement to accessibility and customer experience at the station.“
Cllr Wallace Redford, Portfolio Holder for Transport & Planning said: “One of our key areas of focus as a council is to deliver improved transport options for Warwickshire residents. The development being carried out at Warwick station means we are one step closer to making public transport in Warwickshire accessible to all, and it will be easier for more residents to have the opportunity to make more sustainable journeys.
“Making these improvements also improves the independence of our residents and opens up more opportunities for employment and education.”
Local County Councillor John Holland said: “There are many people who cannot manage steps and the scheme will provide access for both pedestrians and people who use wheelchairs. There are many other people who will benefit, for example people with prams or cyclists taking their bikes on the train.”
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