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Dept for Transport Local Government and the Regions

Answer

Dr. Cable: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions in the plans for modernising London Underground, how many stations the Government will ensure are wheelchair accessible; and what increase that is on the present figure. [36729] Mr. Jamieson: London Underground and the Government remain committed to improving accessibility of the underground and the modernisation plans will result in real improvements. I understand from London Underground that 29 of their stations currently provide full step-free access (a further seven stations with step-free access are served by London Underground trains but not owned by London Underground). In addition, 16 stations provide partial step-free access, usually to one platform only. Five stations will gain full step-free access this year. The modernisation contracts specifically require a further 13 stations, where designs are sufficiently developed, to be made step-free. The contracts also provide for London Underground to take forward further schemes as designs are developed. London Underground plans to develop a network of around 100 stations with step-free access by 2020. Once London Underground has transferred to Transport for London, decisions on priorities will be for the Mayor and TfL.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

36729; 380 c786W;380 c788W

Session

2001-02

Subjects

Access Disability London Underground Underground railways Wheelchairs

Contains statistics

Yes

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk