Passengers using Tamworth train station need to keep in mind that there will be no lift access from July 20 while essential improvements are being carried out. This means those who require step-free access, will need to make use of alternative stations such as Birmingham New Street or Lichfield Trent Valley for a short period.
This is for those who need to access the high level Birmingham/East Midlands or London platforms.
The work is being carried out by Network Rail to improve station accessibility so the 12 weeks of work should be worth the wait in the long-run. The lifts at the station have been unreliable for quite some time so the work is welcomed and should hopefully improve the station for those requiring step free access, using prams or carrying heavy luggage.
Capacity at the train station still remains limited due to Covid19 restrictions so people should still only be using the trains to travel when necessary.
Whilst I am pleased to see the station’s lifts are being improved from July 20th, for customers who need step-free access to be told to use Birmingham New Street or Lichfield Trent Valley for the next 4 months is not good enough. Why is it taking 4 months to fix the lifts? And what provisions are they going to put in place for Tamworth residents who use the station and need step free access?
I have written to West Midlands Trains, who run the station, to raise my concerns. I would also like them to continue the work on the exterior of the station so we can have a scaffolding free station.
Any passengers unsure which alternative stations for step-free access would be best or need assistance when booking onto a train should call 0800 024 8997 or visit www.lnr.uk/contact-us/book-assisted-travel