A Montrose councillor has expressed disappointment that work to improve disabled access and end years of “undignified manhandling” at the town’s railway station has been delayed.
Network Rail has announced that the new footbridge across the track will now not be started until November, following an inquiry by Councillor David May.
The new bridge, with lifts on either side, will finally bring an end to the indignity suffered by travellers in wheelchairs being manhandled across a boarded walkway originally designed for luggage barrows.
“This is disappointing as for many people such as parents with young children, disabled and elderly, crossing from the basin side of the platform is very difficult,” said Mr May. “I’ve been talking to some people who have been in that position particularly the disabled and the elderly and they have found it very, very difficult because they have to go up the platform and then they have to cross the railway line much further up.
“However, what is being planned will make a huge difference to passengers when it is completed. I’m disappointed it has been delayed, although I can appreciate there has been a problem because of the new bridge.
“I gather the line of sight for the train drivers and the signal box was the reason for the delay.”
Campaigners have been battling for years for improved access for passengers with mobility problems who find it impossible to negotiate the steep, stepped footbridge which is the only means of crossing between platforms.