Two Hampshire stations could be set to benefit from a share of around £50 million to improve sites across South Western Railway's network.

Hedge End and Swanwick are two of eight South Western Railway (SWR) train stations that will undergo works to improve accessibility.

It follows an award of £50 to £60 million from the government's Access for All initiative which listed 50 UK stations that will undergo initial feasibility work.

If successful, works at Hedge End and Swanwick will be taken forward as part of the programme. 

Studies will look at how accessibility can be improved, most typically through the delivery of new lifts and bridges.

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SWR says that if completed, the projects would "significantly boost" accessibility and make it easier for all customers to travel.

Michael Adlington, Senior Accessibility and Inclusion Manager said: “We’re absolutely delighted to hear that our nominations for these eight stations have been successful.

“We work incredibly hard in collaboration with local stakeholders to submit these nominations, and so we are really pleased that SWR has secured the most successful bids of any train operator, unlocking huge investments in the communities we serve.

“We really appreciate the commitments made by partners through match funding contributions which will have been a key factor in securing this DfT investment.

“Should the feasibility studies achieve positive outcomes, customers who use these stations will benefit from transformative accessibility upgrades in the years to come.”

Other stations on the network that have been selected for the scheme are Ash Vale, Dorchester South, Esher, Kew Bridge, Raynes Park and Yeovil Junction.