The major development works, which were originally planned for delivery at a later and are still awaiting planning approval, will see the installation of two new lifts to provide step-free access between the station entrance and all platforms, a refurbished ticket office with an accessible service window, upgraded passenger information screens for better visibility, and enhanced waiting rooms and toilets, with improved seating, heating and PA systems.

Furthermore, the front of the main station entrance will be recladded and furnished with improved signage to make it easier for passengers to navigate the station, and 30 cycle parking stations will be added to enhance parking facilities.

The urgency of the project, funded by the government's £370 million ($606 million/€424 million) Access for All scheme, comes with Brands Hatch hosting road cycling for the Paralympic Games, for when the improvement of these facilities will be vital.

Dave Ward, Network Rail's route managing director for Kent, said: "This is a true legacy of the Olympic and Paralympic Games which will make a big difference to the daily lives of thousands of passengers in Swanley for many years to come.

"It means commuters, leisure passengers and Paralympic spectators can all benefit from better access, improved facilities and a station which better meets the needs of passengers in the 21st Century."

Vince Lucas, service delivery director for Southeastern, that rail services provider who manages the station, added: "Making our stations fully accessible will encourage more and more people to use the trains.

"The railway has a vital part to play to any local economy bringing more people and business to the area.

"The more people that can get to the station can only be a good thing."

"We are delighted with the news Swanley is to be made step free," added Simon Goldsmith, the development manager at Community Futures Kent, a local charity serving people with learning disabilities.

"This will make a huge difference to lives of disabled people, those with mobility difficulties as well as parents travelling with young children.

"We look forward to working with Network Rail and Southeastern on this important project and in preparing for the 2012 Paralympics."

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