LNER has completed its project to install 600,000 studs on platforms across its network, enhancing accessibility as a result.
The raised studs are designed to warn passengers of the platform edge, with the surfacing helpful to people who are blind or partially sighted.
The project, which began two years ago, has been completed across 11 stations managed by LNER. These include Berwick-upon-Tweed, Newcastle, Durham, Darlington, York, Wakefield Westgate, Doncaster, Retford, Newark Northgate, Grantham, and Peterborough railway stations.
Carl Howarth, Principal Estates Manager at LNER, commented on the news:
“The studs and paving on our platform edges are just some of what we have been working on to help make our stations even more accessible and safer for our customers. We have already opened our first Passenger Assist Lounge and Family Lounge and are planning to introduce facilities at more stations.”
The rail operator also recently expanded its service offering integrated British Sign Language (BSL) on digital departure screens, which was originally trialled late last year.
The service is now being implemented across all of the operator’s managed stations equipped with the latest screen technology, including Berwick-upon-Tweed, Durham, Doncaster and Peterborough.
Howarth added:
“Our new digital information screens incorporate British Sign Language, providing the latest travel information for customers, and we have upgraded many waiting areas, offering a more comfortable and enjoyable experience when visiting our stations. We are proud to continue working to make rail more inclusive for all.”
Business Traveller has recently investigated accessibility both in the aviation and hospitality industries: