A survey has opened to find out people's views on rail stations in the North, including in Stockport. 

In the survey, members of the public can comment on one or more stations which they think would benefit from accessibility improvement.

It has been organised by Transport for the North (TfN), a transport body which will use the survey to help plan improvements at railway stations in the area. 

For example, this could be improvements which would make it easier for people with disabilities or reduced mobility to use the railways. 

However, as TfN states, "accessibility isn't just about being able to physically get into a rail station".

TfN analysis found that, of 600 stations in the north, only 288 had step-free access to all areas (Image - Alasdair Perry)

'Accessibility improvements', in this survey, are taken in a very general sense, and could cover affordability, lighting levels, safety, and more. 

Local campaigner Nathaniel Yates is no stranger to the importance of accessibility at stations. 

Speaking to Nub News earlier this year, he said: "Disabilities aren't going away [...] 

"We live in an ageing society, and it's always possible to get disabilities. Anything can happen.

"You might need these facilities. You need to think of things like lifts and ramps as an investment, rather than a hindrance."

Speaking of the survey, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: ""We are asking people in the North to have their say. [...]

"Your voice could make a real difference in shaping the future of rail stations across the North and telling the story of how a fairer rail system can open up access to opportunities and help encourage everyone onto our railways." 

Similarly, Martin Tugwell, chief executive of TfN, said: "We are determined to make all of our rail stations as accessible as possible. 

"To deliver a fully inclusive transport system, we need public transport, including rail travel, to be more affordable, more reliable, safer, better integrated with other modes of travel, and more accessible to all population groups.

"So, give us your views now on your local station, or indeed any station that you may have tried to use, and help us to address these issues so we can make rail truly accessible for all."

TfN works alongside local authorities to develop plans for transport infrastructure in the North, which central government must formally consider. 

The public has until Friday 7 June 2024 to have its say. Find the survey HERE.

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