Work to include step-free access at a station has begun.

Ilford Recorder: What Harold Wood station might look like. Picture: CrossrailWhat Harold Wood station might look like. Picture: Crossrail (Image: Archant)

Network Rail has started work at Harold Wood station in preparation for when Crossrail rolls out in 2019.

Apart from the three new lifts to provide access to all station platforms, work has started on a replacement footbridge over the tracks and new staircases to platform level.

Network Rail are also working on platform extensions to accommodate the 200 metre long Crossrail trains.

Environment cabinet member Cllr Robert Benham said: “These works mark the first step to exciting improvements at Harold Wood station and the arrival of Crossrail in the borough.

“We are really pleased that work is starting on the Crossrail project and have been working with Crossrail to make sure that the work causes minimum disruption.”

The work is expected to take about 18 months to complete, with the new lifts due to be installed in 2016.

Crossrail surface director Matthew White said: “Crossrail will provide a step change in public transport for people in Harold Wood – new trains, quicker journeys and a more reliable service.”