PENISTONE and Stocksbridge MP Miriam Cates has welcomed government moves to make three local rail stations more accessible for disabled people. as part of a multi-million pound funding package.
The stations which will benefit from the funding are at Penistone, Silkstone Common and Dodworth and the cash will pay for a number of improvements designed to improve accessibility and user experience, such as removal of steps, platform access improvements, real-time information and accessible seating.
The stations will share a £20m fund as part of the Access For All programme and the MP is now looking to further improve services on the Penistone line.
Miriam said: “Getting around on public transport is still too difficult for many disabled people and as the government prioritises levelling up transport infrastructure, we must ensure that nobody is left behind.
“That’s why I am delighted that these three local stations will benefit from extra funding to make journeys easier and more accessible.
"I am also looking to achieve improvements to the service on the Penistone Line and will be working with the government on plans to provide more seats and better reliability on rail services across the region.”
The announcement was also welcomed by Couns John Wilson and Robert Barnard who represent Penistone East on Barnsley Council.
Coun Wilson added: “These stations are a vital link for our towns and villages and I am delighted they are receiving investment to modernise them and make them more accessible.”
