New footbridge at Port Glasgow station has been welcomed

David Wilson, who is also the chair of the operations committee on Strathclyde Partnership for Transport, has campaigned for accessibility improvements at the station, saying that they were much needed.

The new bridge, which incorporates lifts, is now in place after a successful weekend operation.

Mr Wilson says it will make life a lot easier for passengers with mobility problems.

Councillor Wilson said: "This is something I have campaigned for, having had complaints from constituents with accessibility issues, in particular about Platform 2.

"Port Glasgow is the busiest station in Inverclyde.

"This investment means people using wheelchairs can cross the platform because of the new bridge and lifts.

"It will be a really accessible station and will give people the opportunity to get out of their cars and into public transport.

"The key things are the access from the park and ride and the new entrance from Princes Street in the town."

The improvements have also had the thumbs-up from passengers.

Local mum-of-one Stacy Dow, 36, works as a chef in Glasgow and uses the station every day.

She said: "I think it is well worth the investment.

"This is the main station, there's people going to Glasgow with luggage having to walk over the stairs or having to go out the station and walk right round it, potentially missing their train.

"I live in Greenock but the Gourock train doesn't get me to work on time, so my husband drops me off at Port Glasgow.

"This will be a good improvement for passengers here."

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Network Rail began the work along with principal contractor STORY in February.

The footbridge was lifted into place at the weekend and the ramp next to the entrance of the station with railings, new lighting system and CCTV has been completed.

The project has been funded by the Access for All scheme, with contributions from Inverclyde Council.