I have received an update from Network Rail about the platform issue at Broughty Ferry station. Travellers are faced with a considerable step between the platform and a train. It is something that I am often contacted about by residents and I have approached Network Rail and TACTRAN, the Regional Transport Partnership, a number of times over the years to try and get a solution actioned. Broughty Ferry Community Council has also been active in pursuing this issue in the past.
Measures have previously been taken, such as the provision of wooden
steps, but these proved to be unsuccessful. I want to see the number of
passengers catching a train from Broughty Ferry station continue to grow and
it’s important that the services are accessible as possible. The update from
Network Rail confirms that the stepping distance issue will finally be
addressed as part of the project to introduce the intercity express services
during 2017/18.
The update is as follows:
“Network Rail is sponsoring the project for the introduction of the IEP
trains. This has required detailed
survey work to determine whether the gauge for the new rolling stock will fit
along the route. Network Rail was aware
that the IEP train introduction would probably require construction works at
some stations and it would be an appropriate and efficient use of funding to
address non compliances as part of this project.
The stepping distance issue at Broughty Ferry “Up” platform will be
addressed as part of the project to introduce the intercity express services on
the route to Aberdeen. The work has been
provisionally scheduled to be done in late 2017 / early 2018 as part of a
programme of work on the Edinburgh to Aberdeen route.
In the meantime, train staff can offer special assistance for anyone
that needs it to disembark or alight the trains at Broughty Ferry. “
