£2.6m funding secured to make Pokesdown station step-free after years of campaigning
Bournemouth East MP secures £2.6 million in government funding to install lifts at Pokesdown railway station after local council withdrew funding
Long-awaited plans to install lifts at Pokesdown railway station have been given the green light after a £2.6m government funding boost, marking a significant win for accessibility campaigners in Bournemouth.
Tom Hayes announced that funding from the UK Government’s Growth Mission Fund will enable work to begin this summer at Pokesdown railway station, with completion expected in 2027.
The project will see two passenger lifts installed to serve both platforms, transforming disused lift shafts into fully accessible infrastructure.
The upgrade is expected to significantly improve travel for disabled passengers, older residents and families with prams.
The announcement follows a local campaign led by Hayes, with thousands signing petitions and hundreds sharing personal experiences highlighting the barriers posed by the station’s lack of step-free access.
“We did it,” Hayes said. “As the son of disabled parents, I’ve seen firsthand the barriers many people face.
“I’m delighted that the Labour government has listened and will do something special for Bournemouth.”
Backing the investment, Rachel Reeves said the scheme formed part of a broader plan to improve connectivity and support economic growth.
She added: “Upgrading Pokesdown’s train station accessibility with this £2.6 million investment is part of my growth plan.
“With better accessibility and connectivity for locals and visitors comes a better place to live, work and start a business.”
Local leaders also welcomed the move. Millie Earl said the funding would relieve pressure on local taxpayers.
It comes after the council resisted calls to borrow up to £10 million to deliver the scheme independently.
“We have been absolutely clear that the costs to improve Pokesdown station should not be pushed onto local council taxpayers when the site belongs to Network Rail,” she said.
Hayes described the funding as a community victory: “To everyone who signed petitions and shared their stories, you made this happen.”