Scotland’s Railway has confirmed that Dumfries station will benefit from the Department for Transport’s Access for All funding.

This scheme enables Network Rail to deliver accessibility improvements, including step-free access, at stations across Britain.

Most recently, the Access for All programme has delivered made Croy and Johnstone stations more easily accessible for passengers and similar work is now underway at Port Glasgow.

Network Rail is inviting the residents and any interested parties along to a community drop-in event at Cairndale Hotel in Dumfries between 4.00pm and 7.00pm on Thursday 15 June to see the finalised plan ahead of it being submitted for planning approval.

Network Rail has worked with architects and a number of stakeholders to produce the design which introduces a new footbridge and lifts to provide step-free access across both platforms.

The concept takes into consideration the look and feel of the historic station whilst allowing for modern adaptations.

As well as having the opportunity to see the completed design, local people will be able to meet members of the team who will deliver the work to build the new bridge.

Karen McChesney, Network Rail’s town planning lead for the accessibility work at Dumfries station, said: “We are really pleased that Dumfries station has been chosen as part of the Access for All scheme and look forward to welcoming the local community along to see the designs prior to submission for listed building consent planning.

“The community is at the heart of Scotland’s Railway, so we feel it’s only fair they get the first look at what we are presenting and ask any questions directly to those delivering the project.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Cairndale Hotel on Thursday 15 June.”