Access for All (AfA)

Providing an unobstructed, obstacle free access route from passenger ‘drop off’ to train is a requirement for all rail infrastructure operators. We have designed and installed over 30 Access for All (AfA) rail station upgrades and understand the critical elements for success.

Enhancing Accessibility in UK Rail Stations through the Access for All Programme

At Octavius, we are committed to transforming the UK’s rail infrastructure to ensure inclusive and accessible travel for all passengers. As a key partner in the Department for Transport’s Access for All (AfA) programme working in collaboration with Network Rail, Local Authorities, London Underground and Train Operating Companies, we have a proven track record in designing and implementing obstacle-free access routes at railway stations across the country.

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Twickenham Station Footbridge (9)
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Access all the informmation you need:

Access Our Resource Centre

At Octavius, we’re dedicated to revolutionising rail travel through inclusive and accessible infrastructure. By signing up, you gain exclusive access to our resource hub, designed to support rail operators, designers, and project teams in delivering successful Access for All (AfA) projects.

Unlock valuable resources, including:

  • Proven Practices: Access whitepapers on innovative AfA project management methodologies that drive efficiency, sustainability, and cost savings.
  • Regulatory Guidance: Navigate compliance requirements and ensure your projects meet the highest standards for accessibility and safety.
  • Executive Summary of comprehensive report from InnovateUK: highlights the need for accessible and inclusive transport in the UK, with a specific focus on rail travel.
  • Overview of Access to Rail Travel for Disabled People : Precis of a House of Commons report covering the legislative framework for AfA as outlined in the Equality Act 2010.

Take the first step toward delivering inclusive and accessible rail infrastructure.

Fill out the form to access these invaluable resources—free of charge.

Octavius AfA Resource Centre Form
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Access for All

Critical Elements for Success

Our approach is built on a deep understanding of the critical elements necessary for the success of AfA projects. This includes:

  • Clear and Concise Stakeholder Agreements: Establishing transparent agreements to align expectations and responsibilities.
  • Identifying and Developing the Minimum Viable Product Solution: Delivering essential functionality to meet project goals efficiently.
  • Feasible Designs: Creating practical and achievable designs tailored to project constraints.
  • Certainty of Project Scope: Clearly defining project boundaries to ensure alignment and focus.
  • Best Value to Meet Efficiency Targets: Balancing cost, quality, and time to maximise project efficiency.
  • Right First Time Delivery: Ensuring accurate execution to avoid rework and delays.  

Access for All

Our Expertise in Access for All

Since the launch of the Access for All programme in 2006, Octavius has been at the forefront of delivering critical accessibility improvements.

We have successfully designed and installed over 30 AfA rail station upgrades, ensuring that every station meets the stringent requirements for unobstructed and obstacle-free access from passenger drop-off points to the train platforms.

We continuously enhance our project management methodologies for Access for All (AfA) projects, ensuring that every phase—scoping, design, implementation, and entry into service—captures valuable insights and best practices. This approach allows us to seamlessly integrate innovative solutions, environmental considerations, and cost and time-saving benefits into each new project.

This enables us to proactively identify and mitigate risks, including those related to stakeholder and funding requirements, design complexities, system interfaces, future maintenance needs, access constraints, power demands, planning, and third-party approvals.

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Octavius AfA Resource Centre Form

Access all the informmation you need:

Access Our Resource Centre

At Octavius, we’re dedicated to revolutionising rail travel through inclusive and accessible infrastructure. By signing up, you gain exclusive access to our resource hub, designed to support rail operators, designers, and project teams in delivering successful Access for All (AfA) projects.

Unlock valuable resources, including:

  • Proven Practices: Access whitepapers on innovative AfA project management methodologies that drive efficiency, sustainability, and cost savings.
  • Regulatory Guidance: Navigate compliance requirements and ensure your projects meet the highest standards for accessibility and safety.
  • Executive Summary of comprehensive report from InnovateUK: highlights the need for accessible and inclusive transport in the UK, with a specific focus on rail travel.
  • Overview of Access to Rail Travel for Disabled People : Precis of a House of Commons report covering the legislative framework for AfA as outlined in the Equality Act 2010.

 

Take the first step toward delivering inclusive and accessible rail infrastructure.

Fill out the form to access these invaluable resources—free of charge.

Access for All

Collaborative and Well-Planned Solutions

At Octavius, we believe in early engagement and collaboration with rail operators, maintainers, and local communities to ensure that our solutions are tailored to the unique needs of each station.

Our well-planned and executed schemes guarantee safe and efficient operation of the railway at every stage of the works, minimising disruptions and ensuring that train services remain uninterrupted.

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