Work has started on replacing the lifts at Bolton station and passengers are being reminded that the lifts will not be in operation while the replacements are being carried out.

The £570k investment in the new lifts will see the current lifts, installed in 2006, being replaced.

The replacements will be more reliable and accessible for passengers that require step free access.

Work on the lifts to platform’s 4 & 5 started last Monday, with this stage of the project lasting until the summer.

Once complete, the work to replace the lifts to platforms 1, 2 & 3 will start. The whole project is expected to be completed by late autumn.

Network Rail have been in consultation with local accessibility supporters, and have together suggested that while the lifts to platform’s 4 & 5 are out of action, passengers requiring step free access should travel from Bolton to Salford Crescent where step free facilities are available.

Passengers can use the lifts to platform’s 1, 2 & 3 at Bolton take the train to Salford Crescent before changing onto a train via the working lifts there in order to head north.

This will make journey times longer for passengers that need to change and use the step free facilities at Salford Crescent, and booking travel assistance may be required.

For those that are willing to handle the stairs with extra assistance at Bolton, additional staff will be available to offer help.

Kara Wood, head of performance, customer and stations, said: “We’re replacing the lifts at Bolton station to make step-free access more reliable for passengers. If you need step-free access during the work I advise you to check before you travel and allow extra time for your journey. I’m sorry for the inconvenience while this essential upgrade is carried out.”

“We welcome this investment by Network Rail and the benefits these lift renewals at Bolton station will mean for our passengers. Whilst disruption will be carefully mitigated, customers requiring use of the lifts at Bolton station should allow more time to get around the station before and after their journeys.”

Craig Harrop, regional director at Northern