Network Rail has opened a new, accessible ramp at Lostwithiel station in Cornwall.

The new ramp is 22 metres long, and makes access to platform two fully step-free for passengers travelling westbound towards Penzance.

It allows wheelchair users and passengers with pushchairs, heavy luggage or mobility needs to get on to the platform easily.

The ramp also allows access from Grenville Road to the platform, so that passengers no longer have to use the other access point between the level crossing and the signal box.

More than 80,000 passengers use Lostwithiel station each year.

The ramp has been provided as part of the Department for Transport’s Access for All scheme. However, the temporary and permanent footbridges are not part of the scheme and are funded separately.

The opening of the ramp is the latest stage of Network Rail’s improvement works at Lostwithiel station.

Last September, a temporary footbridge opened, taking passengers over the railway. This has meant that passengers do not need to wait for long periods of time at the level crossing. The crossing’s barriers can be lowered for up to thirty minutes in every hour.

Campaigners had been calling for a footbridge for several years, arguing that without one, the Cornish town is effectively divided in two every time a train passes through it.

Network Rail designers are continuing to work on plans to construct and install a permanent footbridge at the station. Previous plans for a footbridge at the station, announced in 2022, were later abandoned due to a design flaw. The new footbridge will include a facility for lifts to be installed in the future.

“Accessibility for rail passengers is vital, so we’re delighted to open the new ramp which ensures Lostwithiel station is accessible for all.“

Thanks to our supply chain partners SISK for their safe delivery, and the patience and understanding of passengers and local residents during the work.

“This is the latest stage of our work to improve the railway in Cornwall as we continue to invest in every corner of our network to improve journeys for our passengers.”

Network Rail principal portfolio manager, Dan Parkes