The Watercress Line in Hampshire recently welcomed students from Treloar School through their ‘Let Me In’ programme, which is aimed at enhancing accessibility in public venues.

While visiting the heritage railway, the students evaluated the accessibility features of the railway station at Ropley and examined the design plans for the upcoming First-Class Accessible Dining Carriage.

The collaboration provided Treloar students, who are well-acquainted with accessibility challenges, an opportunity to offer valuable feedback to the railway.

They assessed the station’s access points and facilities and had the chance to experience and give their opinions on the layout of the new carriage, currently in the design stage.

The team at the Watercress Line carriage workshop delineated the layout for the proposed dining carriage using masking tape on the floor of their Ropley facilities.

The students received exclusive access to the behind-the-scenes areas to evaluate the layout and provide their observations and feedback to the design team.

Their contributions will be vital in perfecting the final design to guarantee that the carriage adheres to high accessibility standards.

“We are immensely grateful to Treloar School and its students for sharing their expertise with us. Their feedback is invaluable, they were really fun and engaging to work with, and we look forward to incorporating their feedback to make The Watercress Line more inclusive for all.”

Rebecca Dalley, CEO at The Watercress Line Heritage Railway.

The Watercress Line Heritage Railway is currently reviewing student feedback and is keen to implement the recommended enhancements at the station and within the First-Class Dining Carriage design.

This partnership reflects the railway’s continuous dedication to improving the heritage experience for all visitors, including those with mobility requirements.

Heritage Railways are doing their utmost to make their lines accessible to all, so anyone can enjoy a Heritage steam, diesel or electric train ride.

Earlier this year the first pullman car with wheelchair and step free access facilities was launched at the Bluebell Railway offering premier first-class dining for all.