£8.9m Upgrade to Deliver Full Step-Free Access at Apsley Station

Apsley station is set for a major accessibility overhaul, with Network Rail preparing to deliver step-free access to every platform for the first time.

The £8.9 million project, funded through the Department for Transport’s Access for All programme, will see three lifts added to the existing footbridge. Once installed, they will provide a clear, step-free route between platforms 1, 2, 3 and 4. At present, only platform 4 can be reached without using stairs.

Beyond the lifts, the scheme includes wider improvements aimed at boosting safety and reliability. Power supplies will be upgraded, CCTV will be installed in the lifts and along the accessible routes, and lighting will be enhanced. Help points and fire refuge areas will also be introduced.

Construction is due to begin in March 2026, following preparatory works in February, with completion targeted for Christmas 2026. While platforms will remain open and train services will continue to operate as normal, they will be temporarily shortened to allow engineers to work safely on the bridge and lift shafts.

The works will significantly affect station facilities. A construction compound will occupy the car park, meaning all parking spaces and vehicle access to the station approach road will be unavailable throughout the project. Passengers are being directed to alternative parking at Kings Langley and Hemel Hempstead stations.

To outline the plans and address concerns, Network Rail is hosting an informal drop-in session for residents and businesses at Apsley Community Centre on Tuesday 10 March between 5pm and 7pm. Project teams will be on hand to explain how the work will be carried out and what it will mean for the local area.

Elinor Weymouth, project manager for Network Rail said:

“This upgrade is an important investment for passengers in Apsley, bringing step-free access to all platforms for the first time. We’ll be at the community drop-in event to talk through the plans and answer any questions about how the work may affect people locally. We’re working closely with London Northwestern Railway to keep disruption to a minimum, and we’d like to thank passengers and the community for their patience while we deliver these essential improvements.”

Rail Minister, Lord Hendy said:

“By continuing to support the AfA programme we‘re building a railway that works for everyone, and these improvements at Apsley station will mean more people can travel independently, get to work, visit friends and family, and explore more places. By working closely with Network Rail and local partners, we’re delivering practical changes that make a real difference for passengers.”

Jonny Wiseman, customer experience director at LNR said:

“Ensuring the railway is accessible for everyone is a key priority for us, so we are pleased to support Network Rail while these works take place over the coming months. These three new lifts will be a gamechanger for many passengers in Apsley, bringing step-free access to all platforms for the first time. We want to thank passengers for their patience while these works are carried out and the car park is closed. Any customer who needs support planning a journey during these works can contact our dedicated Passenger Assistance team for advice.”

Image: Network Rail