WORK has begun on a £6million accessibility lift at Warwick train station – after a 20-year campaign.
Construction on the lift, which will be suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and bikes, will begin this summer.
The lift on the southbound platform will be fully functional and open to the public after 12 months, Network Rail estimates.
It comes after Warwickshire County Councillor John Holland began campaigning with residents for the lift in 2001.
Coun 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.
“It is well used by residents and visitors and we are hopeful work will be completed in time for the Commonwealth Games in 2022.”
His efforts have been praised by Warwick and Leamington MP Matt Western who added: “It is an incredible achievement that after a 20-year battle, the station will finally get this important lift.
“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.
“Coun 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.”
And Vicky Barrow, who is a regular rail user and requires a wheelchair, said: “Having an access lift at Warwick Station is going to improve the lives of people like myself who have disabilities but also many others in the community such as parents with young children.
“I think John has done an outstanding job with the campaign which has taken 20 years of commitment.
“Warwick is a lovely station and I am so glad that more will be able to use it now and appreciate its architecture and history.”
A new cycle path leading to the back entrance of the southbound platform has also been completed ahead of the accessibility works.
