Transport for London (TfL) has announced the ten London Underground stations that will undergo assessments for potential step-free access, as part of their ongoing efforts to improve public transport accessibility in the city.
These stations have been selected based on various factors, including reducing journey times for individuals requiring step-free access, feasibility of installing lifts, available space for construction, and station depth.
TfL’s decision-making process was influenced by feedback from accessibility campaigners and a 2021 consultation on step-free access, which received over 5,500 responses. The input emphasized the need for addressing gaps in areas with limited step-free stations. The chosen stations, such as Alperton, Arnos Grove, Burnt Oak, Eastcote, Finchley Road, Northolt, North Acton, Rayners Lane, West Hampstead, and White City, represent different parts of London and ticketing zones, aiming to enhance connectivity across the city.
Additionally, TfL is collaborating with the government and local boroughs to secure funding from the ‘Levelling Up Fund’ for step-free access projects at Colindale and Leyton Tube stations, slated to begin in 2024. TfL is also focusing on providing step-free access on the southern section of the Northern line, between Elephant and Castle and Morden, where significant gaps currently exist. Feasibility studies are underway, and an update is expected in early 2024.
TfL continues to engage with local authorities, developers, and businesses across London to explore options for introducing step-free access at other stations, including Boston Manor, East Putney, Hatton Cross, North Ealing, Park Royal, Rickmansworth, Ruislip, and Snaresbrook.
The ten priority stations will undergo assessments to determine the scope of work, costs, funding opportunities, and impact on customers. TfL is committed to working with development partners and boroughs to identify investment opportunities and aims to match funding provided by partners to ensure long-term benefits for those relying on an accessible network. Subject to funding and feasibility studies, the first step-free station upgrades could be completed by 2026.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I am committed to ensuring London’s world-class public transport network is accessible for all Londoners. While there is still work to be done, I am proud that since I became Mayor we have increased the number of step-free stations across London by 20 per cent, meaning there are now more than 200 on TfL’s network.
“I’m delighted to announce the next ten Tube stations TfL will review for potential step-free access, and I am determined to keep working to deliver a public transport network that is accessible to all as we build a better, fairer London for everyone.”
Andy Lord, London’s Transport Commissioner, said: “More than a third of the Tube network is now step-free, and we have also delivered the step-free Elizabeth line, as well as improvements on the London Overground, but we know that we must do more to make London’s transport network truly accessible and inclusive.
“This is why we’re working with partners to fund even more step-free access at Tube stations and these stations are a key part of these plans to create a more accessible public transport network that benefits everyone.”
Local London Assembly Member Krupesh Hirani AM said: “It’s great to see Alperton and Rayners Lane on this list of stations. Following the recent successful completions of step-free access at Sudbury Hill and Harrow on the Hill stations, I hope to see these and other stations across Brent and Harrow become accessible to everyone.
“Making these stations accessible would make a huge difference to disabled passengers in my constituency, making it easier for them to access the transport network, and allowing them to travel safely and with dignity.
“Step-free access will also benefit other passengers, including parents with pushchairs, anyone travelling with luggage, or anyone who just needs an easier journey.
“I look forward to working with TfL and local councils to advocate for these stations to become step-free.”
London’s Transport Commissioner, Andy Lord, acknowledged the progress made so far in expanding step-free access, he said: “More than a third of the Tube network is now step-free, and we have also delivered the step-free Elizabeth line, as well as improvements on the London Overground, but we know that we must do more to make London’s transport network truly accessible and inclusive.
“This is why we’re working with partners to fund even more step-free access at Tube stations and these stations are a key part of these plans to create a more accessible public transport network that benefits everyone.”
