New Coburg and Moreland stations unlikely to feature escalators

Vulnerable travellers have drawn the short straw in designs for two new high-rise stations in Melbourne’s north, users say. But the LXRP says the station is compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act.

The new Coburg train station is unlikely to feature ramps or escalators. Picture: Ellen Smith

People with a disability, those with prams and commuters with bikes could bear the brunt of set plans after escalators and ramps were not included in designs for the rebuilt Coburg and Moreland train stations.

A briefing for Moreland Council, held by the Level Crossing Removal Project on July 8, revealed that stairs and lifts would be the only method for passengers to reach platforms at the new skyrail stations.

State Government early designs of Moreland train station released in June.

The LXRP confirmed with the Leader that ramps were impractical and the stations would be compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act.

It is believed there will be two lifts for each platform at the stations but no escalators.

Final designs are still being completed.

Councillor Sue Bolton said that councillors were told in the briefing that escalators weren’t included because they can break down too often.

“What plan B will there be if the lifts are out of action?” she said.

“These lifts will be overcrowded and there will be less accessibility for people who need that lift.”

Coburg train station early designs as released last month.

Disabled Motorists Australia president Emilio Savle said two lifts per platform with an uninterrupted power supply would be acceptable, as long as amenities were thoughtfully added.

“I would like to see a bit more effort and energy put into boarding,” he said.

“People with disabilities or parents with prams have suffered slips, trips and falls just by the mismatch of the level between the platform and train.”

Community group No Sky Rail Upfield Line treasurer Vanessa Birch blamed a tight budget for the accessibility snub.

Moreland train station as it currently stands. Picture: George Salpigtidis

“This is unacceptable cost cutting. Not only are we getting elevated rail along a heritage precinct, but we seem to be getting the worst, cheap version of it,” she said.

“We worry about accessibility for the disabled and elderly commuters. If the lifts break down there will be no way for people with mobility issues to access the train.

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“Mass evacuation via crowded stairwells could be really dangerous and limit access for emergency workers.”

The LXRP is consulting the community on open space before updating a planning scheme.

An online survey is open to the public until August 2.

A public meeting will be held to shape community views for the skyrail at Coburg Concert Hall, at 90 Bell St, Coburg on July 28 from 2pm to 4pm