NEWS - Step-Free Access Approved for Thirsk Station After Years of Campaigning

The plans focus on improving the way travellers move between platforms and access the station safely.

Addressing Accessibility Barriers

For people using wheelchairs, pushing prams, handling luggage or coping with mobility challenges, the station has been viewed as a “no-go area.”

Currently, a barrow crossing provides some step-free access between platforms, but it can only be used when the station is staffed and train movements make it safe to do so.

A limitation that significantly reduces its usefulness for many travellers.

Government Funding Secured

The Department for Transport has now allocated funds through its Access for All programme, to develop detailed designs for lifts that will make the station fully accessible. This comes after years of campaigning by local representatives and community groups who highlighted that the existing setup unfairly restricted travel for disabled passengers.

A spokesman for the local Member of Parliament, welcomed the announcement, saying the improvement will benefit a wide range of users — including disabled people, parents with pushchairs and those carrying heavy luggage. He noted that crossing high-speed lines at ground level was previously the only option for many, which posed serious safety concerns.

Wider Accessibility Context

The upgrade at Thirsk is part of a broader national effort to make railway travel more inclusive across the UK. Under the Access for All programme, transport authorities are working to increase the number of stations with step-free access to platforms and between platforms, helping to remove barriers for passengers with reduced mobility.

By bringing step-free access to stations like Thirsk, the initiative aims to ensure that rail travel is available to everyone — regardless of physical ability — creating a more equitable and user-friendly transport network across the country.

Parking in Thirsk

If you’re visiting Thirsk for shopping, sightseeing or one of the town’s many events, there are plenty of convenient parking options close to the Market Place and main attractions.

Town Centre Parking

The easiest place to start is around Thirsk Market Place — there are short-stay bays and on-street parking within a short walk of shops, cafés and the cobbled square. Market days (Mondays and Saturdays) can be busy, so arriving early helps.

If you plan to spend the day exploring, use one of the long-stay car parks a few minutes’ walk from the centre:

• Marage Car Park (YO7 1PE) — near the river, handy for Thirsk Racecourse and local footpaths.
• Millgate Car Park (YO7 1PE) — just off Millgate, convenient for the World of James Herriot and nearby shops.

Charges are reasonable; payment is usually accepted by cash, card or the RingGo app where available.

Blue Badge holders will find designated bays in the Market Place and main car parks. Parking is generally free for badge holders when the badge is clearly displayed, but always check the signs for any time limits.

Coaches and larger vehicles can normally use Marage Car Park which has larger spaces — overnight stays are not typically permitted, so check with Hambleton District Council or the visitor centre before planning a longer stop.

There are electric vehicle charging points in Thirsk car parks (for example at Millgate and Marage). These are part of the national charging network and accept most EV cards and apps.

• Thirsk is compact and easy to explore on foot — once you park you’ll rarely need the car again during your visit.
• Event days may bring temporary parking restrictions — always check local signage or contact the visitor centre for updates.
• Free on-street parking can sometimes be found a little further from the centre — please respect residents and parking regulations.

For up-to-date information about specific spaces or charges, contact Hambleton District Council or Thirsk Visitor Information.