Plans have been submitted to create new step-free access at Stirling station.

Network Rail is aiming to covert the existing lattice footbridge into a fully accessible structure between platforms six and nine at the station.

This method will allow heritage elements of the footbridge to be retained, as well as making the station more accessible and creating space beneath the bridge as part of the Stirling-Dunblane-Alloa (SDA) Electrification Project.

Overall, the planning application requests permission for:

• refurbishing and raising the platform 6/9 footbridge

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• alterations to the roof canopy

• installation of a new lift on platform 9 to provide step free-access

• demolition and reconstruction of the staircase on platform 9

• alterations to the area between the footbridge and the existing lift on platform 3

Once planning permission has been secured, a temporary stepped footbridge will be installed and will be in use for around six months while the existing footbridge is taken away for repair and modification. Work is expected to begin in June/July.

Mhairi Mackenzie, Network Rail's senior sponsor for the project, said: "These proposals will greatly improve accessibility at Stirling while also allowing us to modernise the railway in a way that is very sympathetic to the historic character of the station.

"The electrification of our railway will allow us to run faster, longer, greener trains and cut journey times while increasing the number of seats available for passengers. This application is a further step forward in our plan to build the best railway Scotland's ever had."

(LM)