CHANGE is coming to Ludlow station as works get underway to make it more accessible.

Network Rail is making six stations on its Wales and Borders route fully accessible for the first time with the construction of new footbridges and lifts.

Ludlow station will see a lift added to its existing footbridge, while Flint, Abergavenny, Cwmbran, Llanelli and Newtown stations are all set to get brand new footbridges with lifts.

This will mean all passengers, especially those with limited mobility, carrying heavy luggage or with pushchairs, will have a step-free, accessible route to and between platforms.

Work started at Ludlow, Cwmbran, and Llanelli, with Newtown, Flint and Abergavenny to follow in November and December. All the work is due to be completed by autumn 2024.

The improvements are being funded by the Department for Transport as part of the Government’s Access for All programme.

Nick Millington, route director for Network Rail Wales and Borders, said works have already been completed to improve access at Cadoxton and Barry stations, and that he was delighted that the funding had been made available to improve six more.

“Improved accessibility benefits everyone, whether that’s people with health conditions or limited mobility or people with children, heavy luggage or shopping," he said. 

"It also encourages more people to use public transport, meaning fewer car journeys, less congestion and helps to cut carbon emissions.”

Rail Minister Huw Merriman said: “Passengers deserve an inclusive, accessible railway and it’s great to see these essential upgrades are getting under way thanks to funding from the UK Government’s Access for All programme.

“These improvements across Wales and Borders are testament to our ambition of ensuring everyone has equal access to our transport network.”

Chief customer and culture officer for Transport for Wales Marie Daly said: “We’re committed to delivering excellent service for all our customers and these accessibility improvements will bring significant benefits for our passengers across the Wales and Borders network"

All six stations will remain open to passengers during work, however parking will be reduced at some stations as spaces will be needed to store construction materials and machinery.