Work has started to install lifts at Hillside Station in Southport

What is the purpose of the project?

To provide step free access from the booking hall to the platforms below. Following the introduction of the lifts and new trains, customers that possess mobility challenges should be able to board trains without rail staff assistance.

Who is involved in the project?

Supported by Network Rail, Merseyrail are delivering the project on behalf of Merseytravel, the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and the Department of Transport.  

How is the project funded?

The project is jointly funded by the Department of Transport’s Access for All Programme and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, through their Transforming Cities fund.

How will the station change?

Lift shafts will be constructed beyond the existing footprint of the station building and linked via enclosure walkways. The design of the lift shafts will mirror the aesthetics of the existing station to limit the impact of the new development on the surrounding environment. 

Will the project affect the operation of the railway?

Not necessarily. Work will be planned in a way to limit disruption to the train service as much as possible. The station will remain open for the duration. Parts of the booking hall may be cordoned off for short periods of the project to allow the connection of the new structures. The station should remain open during these periods.

Will they work in the day or night?

The majority of work will take place during the day, during the hours of 8:00am and 5:00pm. Weekend working will be kept to a minimum and if we have to work beyond the working week, Merseyrail or its contractor will write to you confirm the details of the event.

It will be necessary to undertake some work during the night. These activities must be undertaken when a live train service is not running. This is to ensure construction activities are undertaken in the safest way possible.

Will there be noise during construction?

Unfortunately, yes, but work will be designed and planned in a way to limit noise as much as practically possible. Merseyrail will monitor activities on site to ensure the contractor is implementing all possible mitigation measures.

Will traffic increase during construction?

Yes. Merseyrail take these matters (along with nuisance of noise) very seriously and activity manage these issues, so they do not adversely affect your day to day life.  

Work will be planned in a way so deliveries and the movement of plant and machinery will take place out peak hours and/or school drop off/pick up times. Restrictions will be imposed on how the contractor accesses the area. Construction activities will be monitored on a regular basis to ensure the contractor is adhering to the imposed restrictions.

Where will be contractor be based?

The contractor will set up a compound for the storage of materials and provide staff facilities on Network Rail land located off Lynton Road. Naturally, construction work will be located at the end of the island platform.