Tascott will be the next Central Coast train station to receive a much-needed accessibility upgrade, with design and investigation work funded under the NSW Government’s $800M Safe and Accessible Transport program.
Design of the upgrade at Tascott station will consider: the installation of new lifts, stairs, ramps and footbridges to improve access to the station along with a platform extension; tactile ground surface indicators (TGSI) to assist the sight-impaired and increase safety at night; accessible car parking; a kiss and ride zone; bus stop upgrades; bicycle parking; and upgraded lighting and CCTV to boost station security.
Planning work at Tascott, including consultation with local stakeholders to better understand the community’s needs, is expected to take nine to 12 months to complete.
Once this preparatory work is complete and depending on funding for the delivery of the project, the government can move to the tender process, then construction.
The announcement comes as work on Tuggerah railway station passes the halfway point, with the new accessible footbridge opening to the public in late 2024, ahead of work coming to an end in mid-2025.
The roof over the new footbridge is complete, and installation of the new lifts has now begun.
The upgrade also includes a new station office and concourse, new accessible parking spaces and footpaths to the stations.
These upgrades aim to make public transport in the Central Coast safer, more accessible and easier to use for passengers, especially for people with disability, seniors, people with prams, bikes or luggage and others who have mobility support needs.
Transport Minister Jo Haylen said that in 2024 it was not acceptable for a person in a wheelchair or a parent with a pram could not easily access a station in NSW.
Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris said in just a few months, Tuggerah residents would have step-free access from their train to the footpath.
“It’s fantastic that the ball is now rolling to have Tascott station upgraded,” he said.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch has long campaigned beside the community for accessibility and safety upgrades at Tascott station.
“I am thrilled to see the beginning of the design phase by the NSW Government,” she said.
“Everyone deserves to be able to access our public transport network.
“All our stations should be accessible, safe and secure, allowing the freedom that public transport provides for our community.
“After seeing the issues that the lack of public consultation created at Point Clare station under the former Liberal government, I am glad to see that (the NSW Department of) Transport will be undertaking a comprehensive round of community consultation to work out how these upgrades will work best for our local community.
“I encourage everyone in our community to take part, particularly those with disabilities and mobility needs.”