COMMUTERS have hit out at the number of Alloa trains still going through Stirling's only inaccessible platform, as work continues at the station.

The long-running issue of platform nine at the station is almost at an end as engineers construct a lift which will make Stirling a fully accessible station.

However, the temporary footbridge from Platform 9 has been described as a "nightmare" for those with mobility issues or carrying suitcases, bikes or prams.

Daphne Hamilton told the Advertiser she is perplexed as to why the platform is still being used when the situation is arguably worse than it was before.

She said: "Stirling Train Station is currently unfit for purpose. We are lucky to have about the best railway carriages across the UK, and running to time without cancellations would convert many people to train travel; however, there is another major issue for anyone arriving at Stirling from Alloa, or travelling from Stirling on the Alloa to Glasgow train when it leaves from Platform 9.

"For as long as it takes Network Rail to install a new lift, the train-using public must negotiate one of the steepest flights of stairs on the network.

"This public nightmare is not resolved by a help button that takes you to a customer service operator in Paisley."

The Alloa Advertiser has been campaigning alongside members of Alloa Community Council to ensure disabled access for all at Stirling station.

Concerns have been raised for the last ten years, as commuters from Clacks with poor mobility had sometimes found themselves effectively trapped on the platform and unable to access the main station concourse.

Mothers with pushchairs also found it difficult to catch connecting services or leave the station, as they struggled to traverse the stairway and footbridge.

While efforts are underway to resolve the issue, the same concerns remain in place.

Ms Hamilton also claims she has seen people have to be helped over to the other side by engineers on their lunches.

The Alloa woman continued: "I have witnessed a considerate Network Rail engineer, on a break, and at their own risk, carry a beleaguered passenger's luggage up and over. If you have a child and buggy – tough."

Alexander Stewart MSP told the Advertiser he will soon meet with ScotRail executives to discuss the issue.

He said: "While the very long-awaited and extensive works to improve accessibility at Platform 9 should be widely applauded; it is frustrating to learn that ScotRail's control centre still saw fit to maintain popular services to this platform.

"I have received numerous contacts from residents with mobility difficulties who wish to regularly use these trains, but are unable to access them easily or at all whilst works are in progress.

"Surely it would have made sense for ScotRail's control centre to have thought ahead when formulating their latest and highly unpopular timetable and figure-in the most utilised trains to the platforms which were more easily accessible?"

Keith Brown MSP also said he would be seeking answers, and added: "I understand that while the work is ongoing to upgrade the accessibility of Platform 9, a temporary bridge has been erected.

"I have been contacted by two constituents who have concerns that the temporary bridge is less accessible than the previous bridge.

"I have contacted the ScotRail Alliance to find out if there is any possibility of restricting the use of Platform 9 until the improvement works have been completed."

A ScotRail spokesperson said: "We are committed to making the railway open and accessible to all, and provide a free assisted travel service to customers who need a little extra help.

"Customers can contact our Assisted Travel team at scotrail.co.uk/accessible-travel or by calling 0800 912 2901."