A MAJOR £5 million project which is set to improve accessibility at Port Glasgow Railway Station has reached a major milestone.
The ramp at the station’s Princes Street entrance has now been completed.
The new installation has been described as a ‘crucial part’ of Network Rail’s work to provide step-free access to the platforms.
It is complete with modern railings, new lighting and a CCTV system.
Working with principal contractor STORY, Network Rail began work to create step-free access at the station in February.
The project is being funded by Access for All, with contributions from Inverclyde Council.
It aims to make train travel easier for those with impaired mobility, as well as passengers travelling with luggage, children or bicycles.
A new footbridge and lifts will also be installed at the station.
They will take station users from the entrance, over the railway, with the lifts providing step-free access to and from the Gourock/Wemyss Bay-bound platform, and the park-and-ride car park.
Councillor Paul Cassidy, vice-convener of environment and regeneration, and Tommy Rodger and Anne Ross from Port Glasgow West Community Council visited the site to mark the ramp’s completion and have a look at it.
Laura Craig, Network Rail scheme project manager, said: “We are delighted to welcome Cllr Cassidy, Tommy and Anne to site and provide an opportunity to see the progress the team has made.
“Once the project is complete it will be a great boost to the community and so it is great to have the support from Inverclyde council and the backing of the community council.”
Ms Ross, the chairperson of Port Glasgow West Community Council, added: “The difference to the Princes Street entrance is fantastic.
“You can already see a lot of passengers with bikes, buggies and cases choosing to use the ramp.”
The project continues to make progress after a new footbridge was craned into the station overnight last weekend.
Councillor Cassidy has welcomed the progress being made in the work.
He said: “This project is one that we, as a council, are delighted to support and I look forward to seeing the next stages of the development.”
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