Plans unveiled to make Glasgow train station more accessible

NETWORK Rail has unveiled plans to improve accessibility for passengers at Anniesland station in Glasgow.The proposals would see a new lift system be installed at either side of the station, as well as associated apparatus, and a linkspan path to connect the lift to each platform at the station.Network Rail said that, as well as providing direct access to the station platforms from Great Western Road and improving accessibility for passengers, the design will also improve the exterior of Anniesland station by creating a brighter and more recognisable access point.Michael McArthur, Network Rail’s project manager for the accessibility work, said, “The lifts being installed at the station deliver modern standards of access for those travelling to or from Anniesland daily and will improve the travelling experience for passengers.“The new lifts and linkspan will help everyone in the community access services at Anniesland 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 works are supported by the UK Government’s Access for All scheme, with the department for transport identifying the station as one which would benefit from the funding.Network Rail submitted a notification for prior approval for the work, which does not require a planning application, to Glasgow City Council.In a letter submitted with their notice, Network Rail outlined that the street-level lift entrance will be offset from the pavement with a glazed canopy and an illuminated vertical concrete plinth sign with the station name. Furthermore, ‘careful’ consideration had been made in relation to the visual impact of the design, including using red and grey brick to tie in with the existing structure, it added.The rail organisation said that work is expected to be completed within a year. Those living near the station will receive letters outlining key dates and milestones.