Passengers using Lockerbie station are set to benefit from a fully accessible footbridge with lifts. Network Rail has awarded the contract for its construction; workers will be on site from mid-February 2007, and the new bridge will open in November.

David Simpson, Network Rail’s route director for Scotland, said: “This is great news for the people of Lockerbie. Constructing this footbridge will make it possible for people with mobility difficulties to use the station. "This project has been on the agendas of the Scottish Executive, Dumfries and Galloway Council and Network Rail for a long time. I am pleased we are now able to deliver it."

David Doris, Project Sponsor for Transport Scotland added: "The new footbridge and lifts at Lockerbie will greatly improve accessibility for passengers with disabilities and small children. Contract award is an important milestone and we are delighted the project is being delivered."

Wyn Deamer, Secretary of the Coalition of Disabled People, said: "We are delighted that Network Rail has now appointed a contractor for the long-awaited accessible footbridge at Lockerbie railway station. The bridge will be an asset to the whole of Dumfries & Galloway."The nicest part of anyone's job is the opportunity to say thank you, and I would like to thank everyone who has assisted us in our campaign."

The project, funded by Transport Scotland and the Scottish Executive, will deliver a footbridge that is fully accessible to passengers with disabilities, including 16-person lifts to both platforms.