Plan to improve step-free access to the London Underground may be delayed or cancelled due to the lack of funds, the BBC reports. Transport for London (TfL) who are responsible for managing the Tube, suffered a sharp fall in revenue during the pandemic, and have received a series of government bailout deals since.

TfL have recently published the results of an extensive public consultation, which found that two-thirds of respondents would use the Tube more if there were more step-free stations. Although there are almost 200 step-free stations across the network, plans to add at three more have currently been put on hold. 

Fazilet Hadi, head of policy at Disability Rights UK, said it was "not acceptable that people with mobility impairments and wheelchair users continue to be denied access" on public transport. TfL said that it would "continue to work with third parties and developers to identify funding".

Measures to help wheelchair users access trains on the new Jubilee Line are currently being trialled, as Rail Advent reports. A special bridging device is being used to give wheelchair users more support and confidence when crossing the narrow gap between the train and the platform edge, which will be available at participating stations until February 2023.

Mark Evers, Transport for London’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “Making our transport network more accessible and inclusive is a top priority for us, as we know that a more accessible public transport network benefits everyone.”

He added: “The response to the consultation shows how important accessibility is for encouraging more people to use public transport. The bridging device has been designed to improve customers’ confidence and experience of using the network and I hope as many people as possible try it out during the trial period.”

Customers are being encouraged to leave feedback about their experience of using the bridging device. 

If you are looking for a platform lift company, please get in touch today.

Ensuring you have disabled access at your business is more than simply providing a ramp at the front of your building, or creating a few disabled parking spaces, you should ensure that there is full access to as much of the property as possible.

Wheelchair users find obstacles in almost every aspect of their lives, from everyday activities that fully-abled people take for granted to special occasions such as holidays. Platform lifts are an exceptionally useful addition to a business that can help people with mobility issues move safely and securely between floors.

As well as ensuring that disabled customers, clients, or staff can access your business premises, a platform lift will ensure that your building meets the legislative requirements of Part M, Section 4.2 and the Equality Act.

Here are some other benefits of installing a platform lift in your business.

1. Efficient

A platform lift is designed to carry large amounts of weight without compromising the speed or safety of users. While they are typically larger than standard access lifts, it does not mean they are slower or expensive to operate. Platform lifts have low running and maintenance costs due to the single-phase power consumption.

2. Secure

As there is no need for the user to remove themselves from the wheelchair, the risk of injury is significantly reduced. A platform lift is a safe and secure way to move between floors.

The risk of injury is significantly lower with a platform lift as there is no need for a person to remove themselves from their wheelchair.

3. Gives Customers and Visitors Access

A platform lift will allow customers and visitors to be able to move freely around your business premises and fully engage with your organisation.

By installing a platform lift you are saying you care about your customers and want to ensure that anyone can access your business. You are making provisions for people who have disabilities, which sends out a positive message to customers.

If you’re looking for a platform lift company, get in touch today.