PROPOSED developments to a railway station could end problems with disabled access.

Plans have been submitted to install new passenger lifts to the underpass under the tracks at Manningtree Railway Station and move the existing staircase on platform two.

Currently, wheelchair users are forced to navigate steep narrow stairs to access the subway, or wait for a station worked to escort them over the tracks if they wish to join the London to Norwich route from the Mayflower Line.

Stephanie Tyrer of Larksfield Crescent, Dovercourt uses an electrical wheelchair because of her congenital heart disease and frequently uses trains to go to hospital appointments in London and would welcome the improvements.

“If this was installed it would be like the system at Colchester North Station and would be absolutely brilliant,” she said.

“At the moment if we have to go to an appointment there is only one direct service we can get to avoid having to change platforms at Manningtree which means it is extremely restricted.”

Lawford Parish Council supports the application but the final decision rests with Tendring Council.