Read: Queensland Rail Shows Footage Of Near Misses In New Safety Campaign

The upgrades, which are also being rolled out at the Lindum, Buranda, and Banyo stations, are part of the Station Accessibility Upgrade Program, will include raising the station platforms to reduce the gap between trains and platforms, making boarding easier and safer. 

Lifts will also be installed to allow wheelchair users, people with prams and those with luggage to access station overpasses and platforms more easily.

Other improvements will include upgraded accessible facilities like toilets, ticket windows and seating areas. New tactile flooring, signage, information screens and enhanced lighting and CCTV security will also be added.

Member for Bulimba, Di Farmer said the Morningside station is one of the most utilised on the Cleveland line, and the accessibility upgrade will make a big difference in encouraging more people to use public transport.

“Public transport is just so important and I know there has been a lot of excitement because of the upgrade plans.

“This is a terrific investment which I think when completed, will encourage more people in and around Morningside to consider public transport.”

Closure of Stations

To enable the upgrades to be completed as quickly as possible, the stations will be required to close starting from January next year.

Alternative transport options will be made available while the stations are closed. The stations are expected to reopen throughout the second half of 2024, except for Buranda which is scheduled for completion in 2025.

Locals’ Feedback

Queensland Rail is seeking feedback from customers to help design alternative transport options during the closures. 

Queensland Rail Head of SEQ Scott Riedel said they want to hear directly from those customers who will be affected by these closures so they can work out how best they can support them whilst the upgrade is progressing from January next year.

“This feedback will be used to ensure there is appropriate alternative transport in place and help us prepare for any extra patronage at surrounding stations,” said Mr Riedel.

We understand this will change the way customers travel for a period of time, but we’re committed to making our rail network accessible for everyone in the long-term.

“Once reopened, the upgraded stations will ensure everyone can catch the train with ease, whether they are using a wheelchair, are injured, or simply travelling with a pram or luggage.

Read: Morningside Will Soon Have ‘Separated Bike Lanes’

Customers can provide feedback on the closures and accessibility upgrades via a Queensland Rail survey.

Published 13-September-2023

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