Staplehurst passengers now have step-free access between the station entrance and both platforms following a multi-million pound national station accessibility investment to make the railway more accessible for everyone.

Ann Widdecombe MP (Maidstone and The Weald) officially opened the new footbridge and two passenger lifts today (Tuesday) marking the completion of the £2.8m access improvement project.

Dave Ward, Network Rail’s route director for Kent, said: “The railway provides the hundreds of passengers from Staplehurst with a key transport link into London, Ashford and Kent coast stations. It’s important to provide facilities which make rail use easier, safer and more accessible for everyone, including people with disabilities and those with heavy luggage or small children.

“We have worked closely with Southeastern and residents to maintain rail services and station access during these improvement works.”

Charles Horton, Southeastern managing director, added: “These improvements, along with the recently opened accessible toilet, will not only benefit existing customers but also help open up the rail network by making it more accessible for new passengers.”

Ann Widdecombe MP commented: “I’m delighted that these essential improvements are now open and providing passengers with much needed step-free access around the station. It will make a real difference for passengers.”

Funded by the Department for Transport’s (DfT) £370m Access for All fund, the improvement works were managed and delivered by Network Rail, in partnership with Southeastern, Maidstone Borough Council local, local councillors and other community representatives including the Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

(From left) Helen Grant – Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate for Maidstone and the Weald; Ann Widdecombe MP for Maidstone and the Weald; Murray Motley, Network Rail; Trevallyan, resident of Sobel Lodge Cheshire Home; Jon Hay-Campbell, Southeastern.