(Network Rail)
TACTILE paving is being installed at 148 train stations across Scotland as Network Rail looks to make Scotland’s railway more accessible.
The textured surface of tactile paving helps visually impaired passengers know when they’re close to the platform edge, thus improving safety and giving more people the confidence to travel by train independently.
Network Rail said that engineers plan to complete the works within the next 12 months whilst working closely with ScotRail, which manages the stations.
Work on the project is already complete at Bellgrove, Balloch, Renton, Alexandria, Newtonmore, Dalwhinnie, High Street (Glasgow), and Ballieston stations.
Stations set for works this year include, Ayr, Kilpatrick, Shettleston, Carntyne, Pollokshields East, Girvan, Barrhill, Drem, Glasgow Central low level, Thurso, Aberdeen, Stranraer, Wick, Scotscalder, Altnabreac, Forsinard, Newton-on-Ayr, Longniddry, Kinbrace, Kildonan, Brora, Prestwick, and Dunrobin Castle.
Liam Sumpter, route director for Scotland’s Railway, said, “We know that many people rely on tactile paving to use the railway independently, so I’m really pleased we’ve been able to develop an ambitious 12-month plan to complete the roll-out of this project. Scotland’s Railway is for everyone, and this work will make rail services more accessible for our visually impaired customers.”
David Lister, ScotRail safety, engineering, & sustainability director, added,“ScotRail is dedicated to making sure that everyone who uses Scotland’s Railway has equal access, and tactile paving plays a big part in helping our blind and visually impaired customers travel safely and independently. By working with Network Rail to have tactile paving installed at all ScotRail stations it will help to ensure all rail users can travel with confidence.”
