THE access for all project at Uddingston Railway Station has been completed with passengers set to benefit from easier step-free access to both platforms.
A new bridge, stairs, and lifts have been introduced to the station as part of the Network Rail project, which was delivered alongside Story.
Engineers used a 230-tonne crane and 60-tonne crane to lift the superstructure weighing 75 tonnes, with the bridge deck being approximately 15 tonnes, into place.
Colleagues from Scotland’s Railway were joined by fire representatives to conduct final inspections on the new lifts prior to them opening on Wednesday.
Kirsty Bright, who was travelling with her mum Mary and 12-week-old daughter Aurelia, were the first passengers to use one of the lifts at the station.
Kirsty said, “The new bridge gives a modern feel to the station. A lift has been installed, making it more accessible to many including myself whilst travelling with the pram. As a mum with a double pram, I was happy to see the lift was spacious inside.”
Community organisation Grow Uddingston work tirelessly throughout the year to keep the station in full bloom. During the project, some planted areas had to be moved but have now been repositioned and replanted, in collaboration with ScotRail which manages the station.
Michael Hart, on behalf of Uddginston Community Council, said, “Thanks to Network Rail and Story for meeting their schedule and for effectively managing access during the building of the new bridge and installation of the lifts, minimising disruption to the public.
“Grow Uddingston have already started planting the new beds around the station just in time for judges from Keep Scotland Beautiful to enjoy our blooming village. We look forward to Uddingston Station returning to being one of the most attractive in Scotland with greater access for all.”
Susan Menmuir, scheme project manager at Network Rail, added, “We are delighted to be able to provide an improved and more accessible route between the platforms at Uddingston station. The work that has been completed will greatly enhance the experience of passengers and will make it easier for them to navigate the station.
“The main work is now complete and the raised beds and hanging baskets give the station that finishing touch – thanks to the great work from Grow Uddingston.”
