A RAILWAY station should be brought out of “the Dark Ages” according to councillors demanding better disabled access.

Northwich Town Council is calling for a meeting with Northern Rail about Northwich Railway Station.

Councillors say closing the barrow crossing, a low-level access path to and from the Chester-bound platform, has left passengers either struggling up and down the steps of the footbridge or going to the next stop, Greenbank, and waiting for another train back to Northwich.

Clr Kevin Rimmer said: “There’s a little sign there saying if you’re disabled go to Greenbank – it’s the frustration it causes. We’re living in the 21st century, not the Dark Ages.”

Clr Paul Dolan said: “For people with disabilities it’s a real challenge for them getting off the train and waiting for another one, and if that’s at night, it’s a safety issue.

“It’s totally inadequate for people with disabilities.”

The crossing was closed in 2011, which Northern Rail said was because of a high level of misuse.

Northwich Town Council has written to the Mid Cheshire Community Rail Partnership, but does not feel the reply addresses the issues.

Clr Dolan said: “I urge that we try again to raise the issue for a solution.”

He also raised concerns about the state of passenger trains on the Mid Cheshire Line, which runs through Delamere, Cuddington, Greenbank and Lostock Gralam, as well as Northwich.

“The rolling stock we use in Northwich is considerably older than most in the north west,” he said. “Why on this line are we having to continue to use old stock?

“It’s a well used line and there are increasing populations as well, both along the line and also in Northwich.”

He said this had an impact on disabled travellers as access to older carriages is more difficult.

Clr Rimmer added: “In terms of the rolling stock, yes they have ramps but a disabled person feels more of an inconvenience.”

The council is requesting a meeting with Northern Rail and Vale Royal Disability Services.