Since the work to improve disabled access at Alfreton Station was announced earlier this year, I have been in regular contact with representatives from Network Rail and East Midlands Trains for updates on their progress and anticipated time-scales. I am told that work is now due to start in April 2016, this is fantastic news for my constituents and this brings us one step closer to ensuring Alfreton Station is accessible to all.
A number of local residents have contacted me about the current arrangements at Alfreton Station for disabled passengers in the past and I have campaigned for these improvements since I was elected. As many of you will be aware, the current access arrangements require disabled passengers wishing to alight at Alfreton station to travel and change at Nottingham or Chesterfield due to the lack of suitable disabled access.
Improvements are much needed and long-awaited by the community, I welcomed the news earlier this year that the station will benefit from the Access for All scheme and further funding from the Department of Transport which will mean it will be possible to install a lift at the station.
I welcome progress on these improvements and I shall continue to seek updates from Network Rail. I am aware that a public exhibition and community event will take place in September to showcase the improvements that will be installed next year.
I have been campaigning on this issue since I was elected and I welcome confirmation that work will begin in April next year. I shall continue to liaise closely with Network Rail and East Midlands on this matter and I will keep you updated on any further progress.