A new, fully-accessible footbridge and lifts at Johnstone in Renfrewshire are now open for passengers.

The footbridge allows station users to cross the railway safely and easily, whilst the lifts take people down to platform level. It is now easier for people with impaired mobility or travelling with luggage, children, or cycles, to access either the Glasgow-bound platforms or those heading towards the Ayrshire Coast.

Delivered by STORY on behalf of Network Rail, the project is part of Network Rail’s commitment to a greener, more efficient railway, and followed best practices in community engagement and sustainability.

Ancillary activities to the project included donating and replanting small trees removed from the platform gardens to Mossedge Village in Linwood, used recycled construction materials, including low-carbon concrete to refurbish metal fencing, and carrying out STEM sessions with pupils from nearby Auchenlodment Primary School.

The Department of Transport’s Access for All scheme funded the project, which improves access within stations for people with impaired mobility. Transport Scotland manages the fund for Scotland, selects the stations for improvements, and delivers them in partnership with Network Rail which is responsible for implementing the works.

Access for All was launched in 2006, since when it has funded improvements at 25 Scottish stations, of which Johnstone is the latest, whilst Croy is nearing completion. Official opening events are being planned at Johnstone and Croy in the coming weeks. The next stations in line for upgrade are Anniesland, Port Glasgow, Uddingston, and Dumfries.

Liam Sumpter, Route Director, Network Rail Scotland said:  “We are delighted to have completed this investment in Johnstone station and the new bridge and lifts will make the railway easily accessible to even more people in the local community.

“Scotland’s Railway is working closely with Transport Scotland to deliver access improvements at as many stations as possible so we can open up the network and create more travel choices for people across the country.”

Brian O’Hare, Contracts Manager for Story Scotland, said: “The team worked around the clock to complete the scheme to improve access at Johnstone Station.

“Collectively we are proud to deliver such an important upgrade which gives residents and passengers the availability of new lifts and a footbridge, meaning that disabled and wheelchair users; the elderly; families with prams and pushchairs; and the many others who find it difficult to access the railway, will have a much safer and easier time now.”