UK engineering firm, Caulmert, has been tasked with improving disabled access at two stations across the Liverpool City Region.
The installation of new lifts and raised walkways will see step-free access from street to train at Hunts Cross and St Michael’s stations.
The upgrades are part of a £300m national funding package from the Department for Transport known as the ‘Access for All’ programme, aimed at making it easier for all passengers to use the rail network.
Main contractor Morgan Sindall was appointed in 2019 to deliver station enhancements through Merseyrail’s five-year £10m construction framework.
Caulmert’s Structural & Civil Engineering Team is now working with Morgan Sindall to design and deliver lift installations, raised walkways, replacement footbridge (at Hunts Cross); and ticket office building modifications.
Detailed design work began in early September and was completed in 4 months. Construction is anticipated to start in Spring 2021. Key challenges include construction within the much-restricted rail environment and the need to maintain daily operations of each station.
Caulmert’s, Head of Rail, Peter Dawson said “We are delighted to have been selected to work with Morgan Sindall on this important project. Our earlier work on the outline (GRIP 4) designs for the scheme means we have a thorough understanding of the station and Merseytravel’s vision to improve access for all.”
David McGahon, Engineering Manager at Morgan Sindall, said “We are pleased to have Caulmert on board and to continue working together to deliver significant improvements to the stations and provide a better passenger experience.”
