Bristol Temple Meads has become the first station in the country to offer audio guides aimed at helping blind and visually impaired people navigate the sprawling station. Network Rail Partnered with a local charity, the Bristol Sight Loss Council, to produce the 12 free audio maps, which are available from today (December 4).
Getting around Temple Meads has become increasingly difficult since Christmas 2020, when Network Rail began a multi-year project to restore the station's Grade I-listed roof. The refurbishment is not due to be completed in the summer of 2024, and in the interim, large scaffolding towers have been erected in parts of the station. Some areas are now only accessible in one direction or are temporarily closed to access.
In recognition of the challenges these obstacles pose blind and partially sighted people, Network Rail worked with BSLC to produce an audio guide of the station and to ensure it remains as accessible as possible for all passengers.
