Hertford North Station Takes Major Steps Towards Accessibility
Progress is rapidly advancing on the accessibility upgrades at Hertford North station, a project aimed at creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all passengers. The initiative involves the installation of a new lift to platform 1, which will ensure step-free access, particularly benefiting those with limited mobility, heavy luggage, or pushchairs.
Milestone Achieved
The project recently celebrated a significant milestone with the installation of the lift shaft superstructure and the completion of the lift shaft cladding. This achievement marks a crucial step in the Access for All (AfA) scheme, which seeks to enhance station accessibility across the network. Josh Dean, MP for Hertford and Stortford, visited the site to observe the noteworthy progress being made.
Making Railway Travel Easier for Everyone
Over the years, the AfA programme has successfully upgraded more than 200 stations throughout Britain’s railway network, providing accessible pathways for countless passengers. Nicola Butterworth, the senior sponsor for Network Rail, emphasized the importance of these upgrades, stating, “The installation of the lift shaft superstructure marks a key step towards making Hertford North more accessible for all our passengers.”
Community Support and Future Plans
The local community has been highly supportive of the project, and stakeholders express their gratitude for the patience shown during the construction. Carl Martin, the accessibility lead for Great Northern, articulated the community's right to full access to the station, applauding the government's commitment to fund this essential scheme. The enhancements at Hertford North station are expected to be completed by autumn 2026, paving the way for a more accessible future for all travelers.