A south Essex MP has been given a first-hand look at progress being made to bring step-free access to one of the area's busiest railway stations.
David Burton-Sampson, MP for Southend West and Leigh, toured Chalkwell station to see work taking place as part of a long-awaited accessibility project.
During the visit, he was shown the first completed stages of work ahead of the installation of new platform lifts.
The lifts will make it easier for people with mobility issues, pushchairs and heavy luggage to use the station, which is currently accessed via 40 steep steps.
The project forms part of Network Rail and c2c's wider programme of improvements at Chalkwell, which also includes a replacement footbridge and ramps.
Mr Burton-Sampson was shown the temporary footbridge that has been installed to keep the station open while construction continues.
The improvements are being delivered through the Department for Transport's "Access for All" scheme.
Mr Burton-Sampson said: "I am delighted to see the progress here. It is so important that this station becomes step free.
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"It was great to see first-hand accessibility measures moving forward at this station, particularly because of its proximity to the beach.
"I have been told how people travel long distances to come to Chalkwell, simply so that they can access the beach directly. So, it is vital they can get on and off the platforms easily.
"For too long Chalkwell has been one of the few stations on the c2c line without step-free access and it is really good news that we are finally on the way to this being put right."
Chalkwell has been one of the few stations on the c2c network without step-free access, despite long-running campaigns calling for changes from residents and former Southend West MP, Anna Firth.
Joe Kennedy, infrastructure director on behalf of c2c and Network Anglia, said: "We were really pleased to host David at Chalkwell station so he could see first-hand the development works which have taken place recently.
"We look forward to welcoming David back later this year as the project progresses."
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