Lifts at a railway station are being installed to give passengers step-free access to the platforms.

Work is set to begin at Hitchin Railway Station tomorrow (Tuesday) to build new lift shafts connecting to the subway which runs between the two platforms. The old lift shafts are not being used because they cannot cater for modern day lift requirements.

The Network Rail project will open up the railway network for all potential users including people with restricted mobility, heavy luggage and passengers with prams.

Currently the nearest step-free station is at Stevenage but work began last month on passenger lifts at Letchworth Garden City Railway Station, which are being installed next to the existing staircase with landing platforms connecting to the station’s footbridge.

Paul Rutter, area director at Network Rail, said: “The access improvement work to both Hitchin and Letchworth stations will provide passengers with a much better experience as they use the railway, especially those with heavy luggage or reduced mobility.

“By spring 2014 the new facilities at each station will play an important role in helping us to manage the individual needs of the increasing numbers of passengers who travel on the railway.”

Refurbishment work at Stevenage Railway Station has also been announced, with the existing lifts due to be replaced with modern models.

The station concourse and ticket hall is also set to have new flooring, improved lighting and wall tiles.

Areas behind the existing shops will be brought back into use, allowing for the units to be expanded.