Biggleswade Station has been highly commended in the Medium Station of the year category at the National Rail Awards last week.

It comes on the back of long-awaited improvements including lifts and a new bridge and walkway, unveiled at the start of the year.

Great Northern Rail, which runs the station, was delighted to announce details of the award, with a spokesperson stating: “Biggleswade is a cornerstone of the community and earlier this year became step-free thanks to a major investment in lifts to all its platforms.

“The station is one of our busier stations, with almost 900,000 people passing through every year. The huge investment has meant the station is now easier, safer and more convenient for all passengers - including people with mobility needs and those travelling with luggage, wheelchairs and pushchairs.

“Delivering fully accessible stations is one of the most important ways we can make the railway better for everyone. Step-free stations open up rail travel as a realistic and convenient option for more people in our communities and we couldn't be prouder that Biggleswade have been recognised for their huge part in this.”

The improvement project was delivered on behalf of Network Rail. The scheme includes two 16-person lifts, footbridge, step-free access from the forecourt, platform improvements with tactile paving, and upgraded lighting, CCTV and passenger information systems.

Installation of the new footbridge and lifts was carried out as part of the Government’s Access for All programme – creating a step-free route to and between platforms.

The investment means using the station is easier, safer and more convenient for all passengers – including people with mobility needs and those travelling with luggage, wheelchairs and pushchairs.

The upgrades were officially opened in January to make the station more inclusive and welcoming for all.