Network Rail is undertaking a major upgrade at Barry Station, making it fully accessible for all passengers for the first time.
The £3.3m investment, funded by the Department for Transport and Welsh Government through the ‘Access for All’ programme, includes the installation of lifts between platforms 2 and 3 and a brand new footbridge.
Alun Cairns MP, for the Vale of Glamorgan said:
“I am very pleased to see the progress being made here at Barry Station. This is a significant spend by the Department for Transport, under the Access for All scheme, which is committed to making the railway accessible for everyone. This fantastic upgrade forms part of my plan for Barry for continued investment into our transport system that is vital to so many people"
“The step-free link between platforms is going to make a big difference, giving so many more people the independence to travel by train.”
The changes will make train journeys easier and more enjoyable for everyone from wheelchair users, those with limited mobility, people travelling with shopping or luggage and parents with small children and pushchairs.
Network Rail engineers and contractors have been working day and night, since February 2022, and the new facilities are due to open for public use by the end of the summer.
The project team has just finished installing cladding on the stairs and bridge and new waiting shelters.
While work continues on the lifts and lights installation, some local groups and politicians were invited along for a tour of the project.
Michelle Boland recently became a mum of twins and a member of the Cardiff Twins and Multiples Club. Michelle, who also works at Network Rail, has a passion for the railway.
“I am very passionate about the railway and I am thrilled to have these improvements taking place on my doorstep, in Barry,” said Michelle.
“As a mum of three, and a recent mum of twins, trying to get the pushchair up and down the steps on my own is so difficult so these new facilities really will be lifechanging for me and other parents.”
Lauren Hearne, Chair of the Cardiff Twins and Multiples Club said: “As a mum of twins I’ve not yet been able to use the train station in my local town but I’m so excited to soon be able to explore more places like Barry Island, all on my own.
“Having lifts between platforms is going to be a game changer for so many parents and those with limited mobility, giving everyone the freedom to travel more.”
