Three new lifts are to be installed at Tilehurst station near Reading in Berkshire, making it fully accessible for the first time.

The lifts will be added to the existing footbridge so that step-free access is available at all platforms and is planned for completion later this year.

To ensure the safety of anyone using the station while work is in progress, Network Rail’s contractor Dyer & Butler will work mostly at night during weekends when there are no trains.

Network Rail and Great Western Railway are holding a drop-in session at the station next Tuesday, 30 January from 4 pm to 6 pm to answer questions about the project.

Alan Gough, Network Rail sponsor, said: “This project extends our commitment to helping as many people as possible to use the railway. Accessible stations make it easier for people to visit friends, get to the shops or to work.

“When the work is complete, everyone will benefit including people with health conditions or impairments, people with children, heavy luggage or shopping and some older people. It’s also good for the economy and means fewer car journeys, less congestion and carbon emissions.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience while the work takes place. We will mostly be working when trains aren’t running to keep disruption for passengers to a minimum.”

GWR station manager for Tilehurst, Tom Butler said: “We at GWR are committed to our customers, helping all those who wish to travel by train to be able to do so. This includes working to provide as accessible and supportive environment as we are able to.

“We are really pleased that Network Rail is now able to progress this work to make Tilehurst fully accessible for the first time.”

Cllr John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport at Reading Borough Council, said: “The installation of lifts at Tilehurst station will be very welcome and will make a big difference to residents who have mobility issues and parents with pushchairs who wish to travel by train.

“Inevitably, there will be some disturbance while the work is carried out and, if possible, I would encourage nearby residents to attend the drop-in session at the station on 30 January to find out more about the scheme.”

Russell Richards, regional manager at Dyer & Butler, said: “We look forward to working with Network Rail, GWR, and all key stakeholders to make Tilehurst Station accessible for all.

“We’d like to thank commuters for their patience while we make these necessary improvements and hope everyone will benefit from the lift installations, once work is complete.”