Disabled face a barrier to travel (From Barry And District News)

Disabled face a barrier to travel

DISABLED people, parents with pushchairs and the elderly who are hoping to travel by train from Barry to Bridgend on the newly reopened Vale of Glamorgan line may have a shock in store.

Passengers at Barry station who want to travel to Bridgend have to walk up and down steep steps to cross the footbridge over the line, to reach the opposite platform and pick up the new service.

The Barry and District News highlighted this problem to Ian Bullock, customer services director for station operator, Arriva Trains Wales.

He said: "We recognise that Barry town station is not fully accessible.

"Disabled customers wishing to board services at Barry for the Vale of Glamorgan line are advised to travel by train to Barry Dock Station for transfer to a Bridgend service."

Barry Dock Station has no steps, as trains run from a single platform.

Mr Bullock continued: "Disabled customers may, alternatively, board at Cardiff Central Station or at the new Rhoose Cardiff International Airport Station for services on the Vale of Glamorgan line.

"We manage 235 stations and the majority are accessible for customers with disabilities," he added. "We are committed to providing an excellent quality of service to all our customers and work closely with our rail industry colleagues, such as the Welsh Assembly Government and local authorities, to investigate all appropriate sources of funding to enable station enhancements to be considered.

"All of our trains are fitted with a disabled ramp and our train crew receive training in how to respond to the needs of customers with disabilities.

"Arriva Trains Wales also operates a Journey Care helpline which provides support and advice to our customers requiring special assistance during their journey.