No cash for train station access

The station operator said it did not have the cash to make it easier for disabled people to access the eastbound platform. The busy route to Leeds is only accessible up a steep stairway from Station Road.

A row broke out last week after a photo call to highlight the issue was attended by local Labour Party figures. Mirfield councillor Martyn Bolt accused the photo call of being an empty political stunt. He has lobbied for improvements since 2001.

A Northern Rail spokeswoman said: “At the moment, we have no plans to change access on the eastbound platform at Mirfield station.

“This work would require a significant level of investment and third party partnership, not just for Mirfield but for other stations along the line. We have carried out a great deal of improvements to access in partnership with Network Rail across our 463 stations throughout our franchise.

“As part of an industry-wide Passenger Assist program, we ensure our passengers who require step-free access are able to travel safely throughout our network and if one of our stations is inaccessible, we’ll provide alternative transport to the nearest or most convenient station to enable customers to continue on their journey.”

Mirfield MP Simon Reevell said a lift, similar to that at Dewsbury station, could solve the issue. But he added it would be more difficult to operate and protect from vandalism as Mirfield is an unattended station.