Network Rail’s project to deliver step-free access at Alfreton station has been completed.
An investment of £6.75 million has seen the ageing footbridge renewed and two lifts added.
The changes make travelling through Alfreton station much easier for passengers who have limited mobility, use wheelchairs or have heavy luggage, bikes or pushchairs with them.
A new ramp and steps connecting the car park with the station entrance has also been provided as part of this project to make the 1970s-built station step-free.
Upgrading the platforms included fully resurfacing and adding tactile paving, while new CCTV has also been installed and the station lighting upgraded.
The project was delivered as part of the Department for Transport’s Access for All scheme to deliver accessibility improvements at railway stations, with a portion of funding coming from Network Rail’s East Midlands route.
Work to refurbish the footbridge was completed overnight, meaning there was no disruption to passenger journeys due to the project work.
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said: “The Government’s investment in Alfreton station will deliver lasting benefits for passengers and improve access to the wider transport network.
“Our Access for All programme is making positive impacts across the country, and we’re clear in our ambitions for our transport network to be accessible so people can travel easily, confidently, and with dignity.”
Dan Matthews, Network Rail head of operations delivery, said: “We are delighted to bring the new lifts at Alfreton into use, complementing the upgraded footbridge and bringing step-free access to the station for the first time.
“The benefits for passengers who use wheelchairs, or travel with pushchairs, bicycles or luggage, are clear, and we hope the improvements will encourage more people to travel by train.
“In addition, there have been other upgrades such as the upgrades such as the platform surfaces and the lighting, which we hope will make a big difference for everyone travelling through Alfreton station.”
Philippa Cresswell, customer experience director at East Midlands Railway, said: “We’re proud to see the completion of the Access for All scheme at Alfreton station.
“This investment will make a real difference to the everyday journeys of our customers – whether they’re using wheelchairs, pushing prams, carrying luggage, or simply looking for a more comfortable and seamless travel experience. The addition of new lifts, a fully refurbished footbridge, and enhanced step-free access will help ensure the station is welcoming to all.
“We worked closely with Network Rail throughout the project to deliver these vital improvements for our customers in the East Midlands.”
Linsey Farnsworth, Amber Valley MP, said: “I am delighted to see the completion of the updates to Alfreton station, to make it accessible for all. This significant investment will make a real difference for local residents and visitors, ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility, can travel with greater comfort and independence.
“I want to thank Alfreton Town Council, who have campaigned tirelessly for improved access at the station for decades. I would particularly like to pay tribute to Cllr Marlene Bennett, who has been raising awareness of this issue for a long time. I am pleased to see that rail travel from Alfreton is now available to everyone and I hope this encourages more people to choose to travel by rail.”
The lifts are operational from Tuesday 3 June. Please note that the operational hours for the lifts will be limited until the end of June while further work is completed on the CCTV system.
Image credit: Network Rail
