A Dorchester train station could become easier to use after it was branded ‘an anti-oldie station’.

Funding is being sought for a lift between platforms and train operator South Western Railway is investigating more regular use of platform 1 for Weymouth-bound trains, it has been revealed.

News of the potential changes come after people with limited mobility voiced their frustration about Dorchester South.

A trial to use platform 1 by the entrance of Dorchester South train station more regularly is being investigated by train operator South Western Railway (SWR).

And SWR has confirmed that it has submitted a bid to the government for a lift at the station, which would provide a permanent solution to the problem.

News of a potential trial of more regular use of platform 1 comes as train passengers have said they have been put off using Dorchester station because they struggle to use the pedestrian bridge connecting platforms.

Trains from London Waterloo travelling to Weymouth usually stop at platform 2, meaning that passengers ordinarily have to cross the bridge and navigate its many steps to either get to the platform or to exit the station to transport links.

However, all Sunday trains (except one) now use platform 1.

A South Western Railway spokesperson said: “South Western Railway is investigating a further trial on the more regular use of platform 1 at Dorchester South station.

“Alongside Network Rail, we have submitted a bid to the Department for Transport for a lift scheme at the station and the successful schemes will be announced later this year.”

Public transport campaign group West Dorset Western Area Transport Action Group (WATAG) submitted a request to SWR for the platform changes and a committee member said it welcomes a potential trial.

Alan Williams said: “We’ve asked for the train that leaves Waterloo at 5 past the hour and arrives in Dorchester at 48 or 49 minutes past the hour to stop at platform 1. We understand that it can’t happen with the other train as there is the other train coming up from Weymouth at the same time.

“It’s possible to do it and we hope they will do it. It makes for easy access.

“Apart from on a Sunday, if you are in a wheelchair there’s no way you can use the station.

“It makes every sense to do the platform change for the train arriving at 48 or 49 minutes past the hour. It’s a short term solution and would be a win for passengers.”