Work starts on step-free lifts and footbridge at Wellington station

Work starts next week on new lifts and a footbridge at Wellington station in Shropshire, a stop on the line from Birmingham to Shrewsbury, giving passengers step-free access between both platforms for the first time.

The scheme, funded through the Department for Transport's Access for All programme and delivered by Network Rail, will provide two new lifts and a new footbridge, creating an accessible route between the platforms and the station entrances.

No disruption to trains

Work begins on Thursday 5 November. There will be some temporary changes to walking routes and car parking, but Network Rail says train services will not be disrupted. The new facilities are expected to open in autumn 2027.

The lifts and footbridge will make journeys easier for disabled passengers, people with limited mobility, and anyone travelling with luggage or a pushchair.

A link to the bus station

The new bridge will also connect directly with Wellington bus station, making it easier to change between trains and buses. Telford and Wrekin Council is contributing funding towards the bus station link.

Adam Checkley, engineering director for Network Rail's Central route, said: "The new lifts and footbridge will make a real difference at Wellington, giving more passengers the freedom and confidence to travel independently. The direct link to the bus station will also make it easier to connect between train and bus services."

"This is a great example of working with partners to provide an improved railway that supports the local community and better connects with the wider transport network," he added.

Councillor Lee Carter, leader of Telford and Wrekin Council, said: "We're pleased to see construction starting on the new lifts and footbridge at Wellington station. This is great news for Wellington and for passengers who have been waiting for better access to the station."

The train operator that manages the station is closely involved in the work. Its customer experience director, Jonny Wiseman, said: "Providing an accessible railway is a key priority for us, so we are pleased work at Wellington is set to begin in November."

What passengers need to know

Part of the station car park will be used as a site compound, so there will be fewer parking spaces while the work takes place. Passengers are advised to consider using the nearby Victoria Road South car park.

Accessible parking bays will be moved to another part of the station car park, and a different walking route between the car park and the station will be in place. Passengers should follow the signs.

Step-free across the network

Access for All has funded step-free routes at stations across the country. For passengers travelling from Birmingham towards Telford and Shrewsbury, Wellington becomes another station they can use with confidence, whether they use a wheelchair, have a pushchair or are carrying heavy bags.