Shrewsbury Railway Station to be more accessible

There are going to be designated seating areas for passengers needing assistance at Shrewsbury Railway Station.

Signage, hand sanitiser units, electric wheelchair charging points, and designated painted areas to aid visibility and staff recognition will also be put in place after Network Rail was granted listed building consent.

The Passenger Assist Meeting Points (PAMPs) form part of a wider scheme to improve accessibility and enhance the travel experience for passengers with reduced mobility or additional assistance needs.

The works are part of Transport for Wales’ (TfW) strategic aim to support equality, inclusion, and independent travel.

“The design and location of these meeting points have been informed through detailed consultation with accessibility stakeholders and TfW’s Access
& Inclusion Panel, ensuring they are inclusive and user-friendly,” said Grace Lewis, of Network Rail.

“PAMPs will facilitate efficient, visible, and dignified support by station staff or dedicated travel companions. These roles have been introduced at several stations to provide focused assistance to a wide range of users, including those with visible and non-visible disabilities.”

TfW is investing £194 million in station improvements over the next 15 years, which is aimed at improving security, facilities and customer service, as well as key community spaces.

“The proposed installation of PAMPs at Shrewsbury Station represents a carefully considered and proportionate intervention that responds to operational, and passenger needs whilst safeguarding the architectural and historic significance of the Grade II listed station,” added Ms Lewis.

“As agreed throughout pre-application discussions the proposed works have been designed to be sympathetic to the existing station environment as far as reasonably possible. Overall, the designs have considered the requirement to be recognisable to both customers and staff using the PAMP services.

“The proposals have also considered the impact of the works on the station and its listed status. The design offers increased accessibility requirements that are both limited in physical scope and reversible by nature.

“The areas to provide PAMPs have been chosen to minimise visual impact to the historic setting. The design of the PAMPs are high quality and well considered to maximise the design life and value to the railway and community while preserving the character and appearance of the listed station.”

Karen Rolfe, planning officer at Shropshire Council, said it has been demonstrated that the scheme wiull enhance the wider railway environment for passengers, while safeguarding the ongoing operational use of the buildings, while preserving the character and appearance of the listed station.