Passengers at Menston station are set to enjoy fully accessible, step‑free journeys following the completion of a £7.8 million upgrade
An opening event was held to mark the achievement, delivered through the Government’s Access for All programme.
The improvements include new lifts, a modern footbridge, enhanced waiting facilities, improved CCTV and tactile paving, upgraded passenger information systems, and a refurbished accessible public right of way footpath.
The project was delivered by Network Rail, in close partnership with Northern, West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the Department for Transport and contractor Amco Giffen. The scheme was completed safely and on time, with zero accidents during construction.
Footbridge installation was completed three weeks ahead of schedule in October 2025, with the lifts fully entering service last week (16 February) following endurance testing. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Friday (27 February) with the organisations which delivered the scheme, dignitaries including city and parish councillors, and members of the public.
Chris Wright, Network Rail senior sponsor, said:
“We’re very pleased to deliver step‑free access at Menston, making the station easier, safer and more welcoming for everyone.
“This investment is already making a real difference for passengers, particularly those with reduced mobility or travelling with prams or luggage. Thanks to strong collaboration with our partners and the local community, we’ve delivered the work safely and on time, and it’s a great example of how Access for All is improving journeys across the network.”
The project delivered strong community and social value outcomes, including school engagement sessions and a partnership with The Railway Children preschool and nursery, which received regular updates and a donation of toys.
Zandra Monroe-Cochrane, founder of The Railway Children, which is based at Menston station, said:
“From the word go, everyone on the project has been really communicative with us and really considerate. They provided ear defenders for the children for when it was noisy when they went outside, and even changed their schedule around our routines so they didn’t disturb the children’s nap times, which was absolutely perfect.
“They made the children gifts for our outdoor area, including a wooden train, and have become friends, really, over the past year or so.”
Anna Dixon, MP for Shipley, said:
“It's fantastic to see the completion of the new accessible lifts here at Menston station. They will make such a difference not only to those of us who have disability or mobility issues and find the stairs difficult but also for anybody who's got a buggy and small children. There are so many ways in which this opens up public transport and use of the trains to everyone.”
Kerry Peters, Northern’s director of stations, said:
“We’re really pleased to see this important project has been completed at Menston station, as it delivers significant improvements for our customers.
“Providing step-free access at stations makes a real difference to people with disabilities and limited mobility, giving many the confidence to travel by train.
“We will continue to work closely with Network Rail and other partners to improve accessibility at stations across our network and always welcome feedback from our customers.”
Doggy Days set to return to Ilkley Lido
Foley Films returns to Ilkley with new autumn programme
Spellman Care named Health and Wellbeing Business of the Year
Runners for Great North Run raise over £17,000 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance
Sir Gareth Southgate helps raise £23,000 for Martin House at Ilkley golf event
Ashlands Bonfire to celebrate 40th anniversary with biggest-ever fireworks display
Off-peak roadworks begin on A65 near Ilkley
Ilkley businesses become Gold Sponsor of Clarke Foley Community Hub
Ilkley takeaway named among Tripadvisor’s top 10% worldwide
McDonald's near Ilkley seeks earlier opening hours
Ilkley care home resident celebrates 106th birthday
Fresh handmade bread coming to Three Little Birds in Ilkley
Former Ilkley bistro owner teases new venture on the High Street
New Ilkley travel agency to celebrate opening with special event
Mental health campaign launched in memory of son
Yorkshire writers in spotlight at Ilkley Literature Festival
Annual golf day raises £4,383 for Airedale Hospital
The Ilkley Cow enters search for UK's Favourite Local Business
New Ilkley care home announces opening date following 11 month refurbishment
Ilkley team raises £3,300+ for The Principle Trust in Three Peaks challenge
