Disabled facilities at Colchester North Station are being given an upgrade.

Passengers using the lifts at the site currently have to use a subway which is “ pretty grim”, according to station manager Neil O'Hare.

But over the next three months it will be brightened up, to include better lighting and CCTV coverage.

Mr O'Hare said that passengers needing assistance – such as the disabled or those with buggies – would still be able to access all the facilities during the works.

“All we would ask is that they give themselves extra time to get to the platforms - perhaps ten or 15 minutes,” he said.

“We have got some older stairlifts which we can use during the works but they are a bit slower than the lifts.”

Mr O’Hare added that station officials will soon be collaborating with the Colchester Access Group, in order to ensure that all facilities are as easy to use as possible.

“We're using CAG as an umbrella group at the moment, to reach the people they have links with,” said Mr O'Hare.

“Before Easter we'll have a brainstorming session where people can come along and have an input.

“Over the years we've made changes based on legislation, but haven't always taken local views on board.

“So this is a big step forward for us.”

CAG chairman Clayton Beckwith said: “This is good news.

“We are pleased to be working closely with the station.”

This info came from Colchester Gazette.