Story Contracting has successfully delivered a major Access for All upgrade at Biggleswade Station on behalf of Network Rail, significantly improving accessibility for passengers and the local community.
The station, previously only accessible via stepped routes, has undergone a comprehensive transformation. The installation of two new 16-person lifts, a new footbridge and a ramped access route from the station forecourt now provides step-free access across the station — particularly benefiting passengers with reduced mobility, those travelling with luggage, or families with pushchairs.
Despite the scale of the works, the station remained fully operational throughout the project. Key upgrades delivered by Story Contracting included:
- Installation of a new footbridge and two 16-person lifts
- A new ramp providing step‑free access from the forecourt
- Platform improvements including new tactile paving
- Upgraded lighting and passenger information systems
- Enhanced CCTV and safety features
- Temporary works to keep the station open during construction
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Friday 16th January 2026, attended by representatives from Story Contracting, Network Rail, Great Northern and Thameslink, local dignitaries, pupils from nearby Ivel Valley School, and members of the Biggleswade Rail Access Network campaign group. The event celebrated the successful completion of the project and marked a significant milestone for accessibility across the region.
Luke Durston, Network Rail principal programme sponsor, said: “Delivering fully accessible stations is one of the most important ways we can make the railway better for everyone. Importantly, step-free stations open up rail travel as a realistic and convenient option for more people in our communities.
“So we’re delighted to have delivered this project at Biggleswade and to see station users already benefiting from the new lifts and footbridge, and we’re grateful to residents for their patience and support while the upgrades were being carried out.”
Ash Widdop, Contracts Manager at Story Contracting said: “We’re proud to support Network Rail in delivering better, more inclusive access at stations across the UK.
The Access for All scheme at Biggleswade is a brilliant example of how true collaboration can deliver lasting benefits. From the outset, this project has been driven by close partnership working between Network Rail, our team and our supply chain, enabling us to overcome challenges together and deliver enhancements that will make journeys easier and more accessible for everyone.
It’s fantastic to see the new lifts and footbridge now in use, opening up the station to passengers who previously couldn’t access it. This is a real achievement for everyone involved and a positive step forward for the whole community.”
Carl Martin, accessibility lead for Great Northern, which operates Biggleswade station, and Thameslink, added: “We look forward to welcoming new customers at Biggleswade who previously couldn’t use the station – indeed for some disabled passengers these lifts have the potential to be life-changing.
“Biggleswade is one of our busier stations with almost 900,000 people passing through every year and this is fantastic news for the community and our passengers.”
Mark Tripp, chair of governors at Ivel Valley School and College and a Great Northern train driver, said: “Travel training is a vital part of our education programme. Our students will now be able to use the rail network to explore further and to learn those vital skills that they will take into adulthood.
“And as a train driver for Great Northern, I’m excited that I will get to see firsthand more of my community being able to access rail services. I look forward to playing my part in their future journeys.”
