London Northwestern Railway has agreed to talk to commuters affected by the news that all the lifts at Watford Junction will be out at the same time.

Deputy mayor Cllr Karen Collett met with rail bosses earlier this week to grill them about the plans to replace the lifts at the station.

Baroness Sal Brinton, who uses a wheelchair to travel by train to Parliament, every week, said it was "appalling" that all the lifts would be done at the same time.

Previous story: Sal Brinton reacts to the news every lift to be replaced at same time at Watford Junction

Watford Observer:

Baroness Sal Brinton

Cllr Collett said that London Northwestern has agreed to engage with commuters with disabilities or mobility issues about the changes and to ensure there is easy access on fast platforms to and from London.

Cllr Collett said: "I think everyone would agree that the lifts at the station are in desperate need of replacing. However, it is disappointing that this is being done at such short notice and with such little time available to communicate with people who are affected.

"If they are going to be replaced in the time frame that is suggested, I have made it very clear that people with mobility difficulties must get the proper support they need. I also raised passengers concerns about the need for all three lifts to be out of action at once. I would really encourage anyone concerned about this to get in touch with the train operator on their helpline number before they travel."

Watford Observer:

The lifts on platforms 6-10 will be out of use from October 28 until February 2020.

Both Network Rail and London Northwestern recognise journeys will be disruptive and said extra measures are being put in place to ensure journeys are easy as possible.

Network Rail says all lifts are being upgraded at once to "speed up the work".

Anyone who needs step-free access to trains is being advised to book assisted travel with London Northwestern Railway by calling 0800 024 8997.