Accessibility lift at Warwick railway station finally set for construction after 20-year campaign
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Long-awaited works to build an accessibility lift at Warwick railway station are set to begin in the coming months - after a 20-year campaign.
Warwick and Leamington MP Matt Western says it is an important improvement and will allow wheelchairs, pushchairs and bikes easier access.
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Hide AdHe saluted Warwickshire County Councillor John Holland (Warwick West, Labour) who, along with residents, began campaigning for the lift in 2001.
Construction is set to begin in the summer, with an exact date soon to be confirmed.
Network Rail estimates the lift on the southbound platform will be fully functional and open to the public after 12 months.
Mr Western said: “It is an incredible achievement that, after a 20-year battle, the station will finally get this important lift.
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Hide Ad“It is something I raised with the government in early 2019 and ministers promised me then they would get it done.
“Residents have been calling for it for a long time, and many need it to make rail travel from the station easier and more tolerable.
“Cllr Holland’s work has been tireless – and it will be part of his exemplary legacy as councillor.
“We are excited that by next summer, it could be ready for use.”
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Hide AdCllr Holland says the lengthy 12-month construction process is intended to substantially reduce disruption to nearby residents.
He and Mr Western are holding a meeting with neighbours so any questions about the project can be answered.
Cllr Holland said: “I have been working with Network Rail on this important project for a long time.
“We need to ensure the building work goes smoothly.
“But installing these lifts will secure the future of the station.
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Hide Ad“It is well used by residents and visitors and we are hopeful work will be completed in time for the Commonwealth Games in 2022.”
A new cycle path leading to the back entrance of the southbound platform has also been completed ahead of the accessibility works.
In 2019, enabling works began to locate buried wires and cables but little progress has been made since.
Originally it was hoped the lift would be functional by Autumn this year, but progress has been pushed back due to tendering delays.