IMPROVEMENTS to Burnley’s rail link to Manchester are to be considered.

Burnley Council’s cross-party scrutiny group met with passengers, businesses, Northern Rail and Lancashire County Council to highlight issues with the station.

The group found issues with access to platform one, where there was space for lift access to be installed.

A spokesman within the report said Burnley is the only ‘northern connect’ hub station without lift access.

Issues with the over-subscribed carpark were also raised, with commuter parking having an impact on the surrounding streets.

Access to toilets was also a big concern as entry requires a key from the ticket office and the report found it could be difficult for commuters to obtain it quickly, especially if there was a queue.

Scrutiny committee chairman Cllr Andrew Tatchell said: “Whilst the new Manchester Road station, and the service to Manchester, were held in high regard, it was felt that there were still some aspects of the new station that could be improved.

“Burnley’s close transport links to Manchester are vital to the borough’s future.

“We need to ensure that our residents get the best possible service. Our railway stations are often the first thing visitors see and they need to be high quality to create a good impression."

There was concerns over the taxi rank because it was out of the line of site of commuters from the station.

In the report, a council spokesman said: “With the council pressing through channels may help to secure funding more quickly.

“Northern Rail is to consider improvements to shelters, and to line marking the platform. As part of a joint project between Burnley Council and Lancashire County Council, additional car parking is planned.

“The county council will work with Northern Rail to improve signage where possible. The train company will also consider options to make toilet access easier.”

The report will be considered by the scrutiny committee before it goes to the authority’s executive later this month.