WORK is forging ahead on the installation of a lift at Dawlish railway station.

Engineers working on Network Rail’s South West Rail Resilience Programme say they are making ‘good progress’ on the accessible footbridge and lift structure.

Once completed, the work will mean Dawlish station has a lift for the first time in its history.

A spokesman for the programme said: ‘Over the weekend, we lifted in some of the pre-cast concrete units that make up the wall which will shield the bridge’s staircase from the elements.’

Progress on the lift can also clearly be seen with the lift towers taking shape.

Improvements to access the station, which was built in the 1840s, will benefit passengers in wheelchairs, those with impaired mobiliy, using prams and pushchairs as well as with heavy luggage.

It will mean they no longer have to wait for assistance to cross the line.

The finished design will see the bridge have a stainless steel and glass parapet, allowing passengers to enjoy the view as they cross.

The lift shafts will be finished in grey, textured concrete to blend in with the new sea wall.

The latest progress is part of the £80 million scheme to protect the vulnerable coastal rail link following the devastating storms of 2014 which breached the line.