Views sought on access to rail stations

The infrastructure and capital investment committee has called on the public to take part in a consultation to identify access difficulties and discuss how stations could be improved.

The committee is focusing on stations including Glasgow Central and Queen Street, as well as Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh Waverley and Haymarket, Inverness, Perth and Stirling.

Jim Eadie MSP, committee convener, said: “We are carrying out a short piece of work on this issue to determine how easy it is for people to access Scotland’s rail network.

“Our survey aims to identify if there are shared issues. We are looking to hear about how easy it is for pedestrians, cyclists and disabled people to access and move within stations.

“We also want to know how access to other modes of public transport and taxis from stations can be improved.”

A poll on The Extra’s Facebook shows that concerns over access extend to southside stops, as well as the major stations.

El Ahrairah Grant commented: “As a new mum I’ve found that most of the stations in the southside don’t have ramp access. It’s all stairs!

“I’d never thought anything about it before having my baby and pushing a buggy, but it’s really made me wonder how those in wheelchairs get around.”

Another follower added: “Most stations are accessible to wheelchair users and those which have access usually need to be phoned in advance to allow access. It’s not ideal for anyone.”

The consultation runs until May 8, available online at www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/CurrentCommittees/88585.aspx