Upgrades are imminent at Ipswich train station, with the Palaszczuk Government set to replace the 49-year-old lifts and raise partially the station platforms, making travel easier and safer for all.

It builds on works underway at East Ipswich station and plans to overhaul Bundamba station as part of the government’s half-a-billion investment to upgrade station accessibility and create jobs across the south-east stations.

Member for Ipswich Jennifer Howard said work would be underway between April and August, with temporary access changes for some customers in the meantime.

“Construction is powering ahead at East Ipswich station, we’re improving the whole network capacity with Cross River Rail and now we’re modernising Ipswich station for those in our community with a disability, seniors and parents with prams,” Ms Howard said.

“Importantly all these works are also creating jobs at a time when we need them most, with Queensland’s economic recovery well underway.

Ms Howard said from Wednesday 7 April, the existing 1972 lifts will be taken out of service and work will begin to replace them with new, modern, accessible lifts that will be safer and more reliable. 

“The new lifts will meet modern accessibility standards, allowing customers to enter one side and exit the other, rather than having to navigate a turn in the confined space.

“But it does mean the current lifts will be out of action for four months, so some additional journey planning may be required for those who normally use the lifts.

“Ipswich station has ramps to all platforms, but they are quite steep and can be difficult for some people to manage on their own, so Queensland Rail customer service staff will be on hand to provide assistance.

“For customers who may not be able to use the ramps, alternate transport arrangements can also be made to connect to the nearest accessible stations, which are Dinmore and Wulkuraka.”

Ms Howard said partial platform raising works would also take place in the coming months to make it easier and safer for customers to board and disembark trains across the network.

“During a scheduled track closure on 8 and 9 May, Queensland Rail will raise the height of the core zone of platforms at Ipswich station, including where the assisted boarding point is located.

“This will reduce the gap between the platform and train floor level, allowing for a better boarding experience for rail customers in the community including seniors, parents with prams, people with luggage, and customers using mobility aids.”

Ms Howard said minor finishing works will see the platform improvements completed in June, while the new accessible lifts would be commissioned by August, and thanked Ipswich commuters for their patience while the improvements were underway.

“These are much-needed improvements for Ipswich station that will provide better access and more modern facilities for commuters.  

“Ipswich station is attended by customer service staff from first train to last, and I would encourage people to approach them with any questions they may have, or to help plan their journey.”

For more information visit www.queenslandrail.com.au