Work will take place at the end of January to replace the lift giving access to platforms 13 and 14 at Manchester Piccadilly station. The lift renewal will make step-free access more reliable to station platforms.
The work will start on Monday 31 January 2022 and take place until Monday 16 May 2022. Between these dates, the lift will be out of use, however step free access to platforms 13 and 14 will be available by using a new stairlift fitted to the staircase on platform 14.
Throughout the work staff will be on hand at the station to assist all passengers who need help getting to and from platforms 13 and 14.
Passengers who need step-free access or assistance with luggage are recommended to allow extra time for their journeys and where possible, book assisted travel in advance with their train operator. Alternatively, tickets will be valid for passengers to travel via the nearest step-free stations while the essential lift upgrade is taking place.
“This investment into the lift at Manchester Piccadilly station will greatly improve reliability for passengers,” said Scott Green, Network Rail head of stations and passenger experience in the North West.
“We understand the upgrade will be disruptive for people and we are working closely with our train operator colleagues to make everyone’s journey as easy as it can be during the work.
“I’d urge anyone planning to travel via platforms 13 or 14 during the 15-week project to allow extra time for their journey and to plan ahead.”
Disabled people have worked closely with Network Rail in advising on and seeking to minimise the impact of the closure of the lift facility, according to Stephen Brookes, rail policy adviser for Disability Rights UK.
“We do recommend that disabled people share the news and information where possible,” he said. “It is important that we all take extra time to arrive early at the station so that we can use the fully staffed replacement stairlift facility provided in a timely way.”
More information on the lift upgrade can be found at www.networkrail.co.uk/ManPicLift.
Image credit: Network Rail
