Renfe has committed to Cermi that the accessibility improvement works at Galapagar-La Navata station will affect travellers with disabilities or reduced mobility as little as possible. The works will last about four months.
Renfe has assured the Spanish Committee of Representatives of Persons with Disabilities (Cermi) that the accessibility works at Galapagar-La Navata station will be carried out with minimal inconvenience to travellers with reduced mobility. The public operator detailed that the actions include the comprehensive improvement of walkways, shelters, and access, as well as the creation of a fully accessible environment.
According to the information provided by Renfe to Cermi, the works include the adaptation of accessible routes, reserved spaces for persons with reduced mobility, removal of curbs, ramp adaptations, installation of new pavements, improvement of lighting, and renewal of signage. The station, part of the Madrid Commuter Network, is used daily by numerous residents of Galapagar and La Navata.
Safety and accessibility during the works
Renfe has explained that certain phases of the work cannot be compatible with pedestrian traffic for safety reasons, due to risks associated with demolition work, consolidation, temporary reduction of passage width, or lack of lighting in some areas. However, the company assures that it is striving to always maintain a passage between platforms, alternating the use of ramps and stairs according to the affected areas.
For its part, Cermi emphasises that user safety must be a priority, but also insists on the need to ensure an accessible and safe alternative for persons with disabilities and reduced mobility throughout the entire execution period. The entity has positively assessed Renfe's willingness to engage in dialogue and seek solutions.
For regular travellers on the line, such as those commuting to Madrid for work or study, the works have resulted in changes to usual routes. Renfe recommends checking the information panels at the station and the Cercanías app to learn about temporary diversions. The company has set up a customer service phone line to address specific accessibility queries.
Timelines and next steps
Regarding timelines, the public railway company specifies that the time required to have a fully accessible operational passage on the walkways will be approximately four months from the current date. This means that, if the timelines are maintained, the station could have all adapted accesses by the end of 2026.
Cermi has announced that it will continue to monitor the progress of the works and will hold periodic meetings with Renfe to ensure compliance with the commitments made. The entity reminds that universal accessibility is a right enshrined in Spanish legislation and that administrations must ensure its compliance in all public infrastructures.
Meanwhile, residents of Galapagar and La Navata will need to be patient. The works, although necessary, always generate disruptions, but the promise of a station without architectural barriers is an incentive. However, it will take four months to be able to board the train without having to navigate obstacles. At least, Renfe has promised that it will not leave anyone on the platform.
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