TRAVELLING from Birchwood station is set to get easier thanks to a £2million investment providing step free access to platforms for the first time.

Network Rail will build a new bridge with lifts to all platforms at the station with work set to start later this spring.

The scheme is funded by a £1.193m grant from the Department for Transport's Access for All programme and by Warrington Borough Council.

Ian Joslin, Network Rail area director, said: “These vital improvements to Birchwood station will make life easier for everyone to use the train, especially those with heavy luggage, reduced mobility or with small children.

“The new facilities will help Birchwood station handle the increasing numbers of passengers who are using it every day.”

Clr Linda Dirir, executive member for highways, transportation and climate change added: “The new footbridge and lifts will enable all passengers to easily catch the train from both platforms and will help to make travel by train more convenient, which is a key aim of the council’s Local Transport Plan.”

Clr Pauline Nelson, chairman of Birchwood Town Council, said: “I would like to thank the local community for its strong support for the scheme which helped to secure Department for Transport funding. I would particularly like to thank the East Neighbourhood Board who made a generous financial contribution towards the cost of these improvements.”

Work is set to be completed in the autumn and rail services will not be affected during the project.