In modern railway stations, a wheelchair platform lift will be a standard feature and in recent years, there has been a growing focus on achieving step-free access for all. However, retrofitting older stations can be a challenge.
This is particularly true if the station is underground, which can create constraints on space. However, in London, the Crossrail Elizabeth Line has set a standard, with all stations offering step-free access.
While this is a welcome feature of a (partly) subterranean railway built in the 21st century, the London Underground is another matter. Its newest section was completed in the 2020s, but its oldest dates back to 1863, while the locations of its stations vary between deep tunnels, sub-surface cut-and-cover tunnels and surface lines.
The good news is that Transport for London has been making progress:
· In addition to Crossrail, 93 of the 270 Tube stations have step-free access
· 60 Overground stations have step-free access
· 2025 has seen Knightsbridge Tube station become step-free
· The latest upgrade work is providing step-free access to Colindale, Leyton and Northolt stations.
· Transport for London has also earmarked Alperton, Arnos Grove, Colliers Wood, Eastcote, North Acton, Tooting Broadway and West Hampstead for step-free access work.
Will New Tube Stations All Be Step-Free?
Some lines are lagging behind, but might become a priority for future work. For instance, last year’s development of a new ticket hall at Paddington gave the Bakerloo line step-free access for the first time, but the Bakerloo is also the prime target for extension, which would surely mean step-free access on the planned new south-east London stations.
New developments will undoubtedly be step-free. This was true of stations on the Northern Line extension and last month saw Battersea Power Station gain a second step-free entrance, including a passenger lift.
What all this shows is that while the world’s oldest underground rail network is far from being fully step-free, work is ongoing and progress is being made, which suggests it will be one day.