AN MP has raised concerns about access to Middlesbrough train station after a disabled passenger had to take a train to Redcar and back to get on to the right platform.

Due to a broken-down lift at Middlesbrough which prevented any wheelchair access out of the station from platform 2, the passenger had to take the detour to get back on to platform 1.

Labour MP for Middlesbrough Andy McDonald has said something needs to be done about better access at the station.

He criticised the fact that a disabled passenger and carer had to do the round trip just to cross the line to platform 1 and said: "Firstly, following the failure of the lift to platform 2, I want to hear assurances from First TransPennine Express (FTPE) about how they will better manage such a situation in the future."

TransPennine Express said the situation was rare but unfortunate. Usually if the lift fails at Middlesbrough the company advises any disabled passengers to disembark at Thornaby and it pays for a taxi to take them to Middlesbrough.

A spokesman said that in this case the train had left Thornaby just before the lift broke at Middlesbrough, and the only solution was to allow the customer off at platform 2 in Middlesbrough and wait for the next train to Saltburn and back.

The spokesman said: "We are aware of the lift fault at Middlesbrough station which was caused by a mechanical issue. This was rectified and back operational on the same day.

"We are also aware that a customer with mobility needs was required to travel to Redcar as there was no level access as a result of the broken lift. Whilst this isn't ideal, there was no other alternative and FTPE staff spoke with the customer and explained the situation."

Mr McDonald also raised concerns about the length of time the Zetland Road access to the station had been closed and called on Network Rail to publish plans for the redevelopment. The access was closed a year ago due to structural issues and has still not been fixed.

“The state of affairs as they are now simply won't do”, said Mr McDonald. “We shouldn't have to keep asking Network Rail what is going on and they should be keeping the public and stakeholders infinitely better informed than is the case at the moment."

A Network Rail spokesman said redevelopment plans would be ready by the summer and a scheme would be developed within 12 months.

He said signs would be improved to direct people to Wood Street to access the station, within the next few days.