Transport for the North (TfN) asked more than 2,000 people across the North of England to share their experiences using rail stations – especially those living with health conditions or disabilities – and found that many remain inadequate for disabled access.
Research from TfN highlights that most stations in the North are difficult or impossible for disabled people to use.
TfN is calling for accessibility to be a top consideration when planning new infrastructure for the North’s railway, and specifying new train services.
The report found that:
- Fewer than half the stations in the North have step-free access
- More than six-in-ten stations don’t have fully accessible waiting shelters
- Nearly a quarter have no public address systems
Northern political leaders state within the report that the UK government need to devolve accessibility budgets to Northern mayors to ensure decisions, like accessibility, are made locally.
Resultantly, TfN has written to the UK transport secretary seeking a commitment to the investment needed to fix these issues.
Mayor of Greater Manchester and chair of the TfN’s rail north committee Andy Burnham said: “Accessibility is key.
“A rail network has to be for everybody. The simple ability to get around is a right that should be available to all our communities.
“We have tactile paving in our urban spaces and step-free access in key public buildings, and we need that accessibility extended to our whole rail network. Without that we close off opportunities to lots of our people and businesses.
“We are calling on the government to address these accessibility challenges and create a more inclusive rail network for all rail passengers to use.
“If it works for the Northern economy, it benefits the national economy too.”
Achievements in accessibility & disability will be recognised and celebrated at the fourth annual CiTTi Awards on 25 November 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector!
