Access for All (AfA) represents a transformation for people who previously found the rail network difficult or intimidating to use. The freedom and opportunity offered by rail travel is now something they too can enjoy.
Broadening access to rail services through upgraded stations comes with plenty of challenges as Lloyd Jefferson-Smith, Octavius’ Head of Rail Pre-delivery explains.
“Quite naturally, busy, well-used stations offer the biggest opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of the maximum number of people. This reality comes hand-in-hand with the fact that improving these stations carries the biggest risk of causing disruption to travellers while work is carried out.
”There are few easy options when it comes to resolving this conflict. Closing stations and platforms while we improve access is rarely, if ever, an option. Our teams often have to work in tight locations, on old structures that were built to very different standards. AfA projects are always a test of our ingenuity.”
Managing High Expectations
One of the hallmarks of AfA schemes Octavius has delivered is the positive impression left with local communities and stakeholders.
“This is something we’re proud of. Most people understand the importance of AfA even if they won’t personally benefit at this time. They’ll accept a degree of disruption as long as they’re kept informed and can see that positive steps are being taken to keep inconvenience to the absolute minimum.
“For designers and project managers this comes down to priorities – not accepting an easy option if it means more disruption. It’s also about having trusted supply chain partners: for example, knowing that when we’ve scheduled an overnight installation of a prefabricated footbridge or staircase, accurate detailing means that everything will fit perfectly the first time and be completed well within a possession window.
“The other non-negotiable is safety. At Ewell West we used a clever cantilevered scaffolding structure so we could install brick cladding to the new lift shafts without needing to close the platform below. The brick cladding was a requirement because of the station’s heritage status”
“Having delivered many AfA schemes, our teams have accumulated a wealth of experience that will ensure future projects proceed smoothly and cause the least possible disruption. This means we can step up delivery without a corresponding increase in disruption.”
Find out more about our approach to AfA delivery by visiting our AfA resource area – complete the form below to access.
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By signing up, you’ll gain access to our resource hub, designed to support rail operators, designers and project teams in delivering successful Access for All (AfA) projects.
Access valuable resources, including:
- Proven Practices: Practical guides on AfA project management to improve efficiency, reduce costs and achieve sustainable outcomes.
- Regulatory Guidance: Clear insights into compliance requirements to ensure your projects meet the highest standards of accessibility and safety.
- InnovateUK Report Summary: Detailed findings on the future of accessible and inclusive rail travel in the UK.
- House of Commons Report Overview: An overview of the legislative framework for AfA, including its alignment with the Equality Act 2010.
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