Hornchurch and Upminster MP, Julia Lopez, has this week formally submitted a community request to Transport for London (TfL) for step-free access at Hornchurch Underground Station. The bid includes the results of a community survey the local MP carried out which shows overwhelming support for the plan.
Hornchurch station is one of thirty across the network currently under consideration for future accessibility upgrades. TfL is expected to select just fifteen stations to move forward to full feasibility studies later this year.
The survey revealed near unanimous support among those who participated. Dozens and dozens of residents shared personal or family experiences of how the current lack of lift access has limited their ability to travel, particularly among elderly residents, parents with young children, and those with mobility issues.
Mrs Lopez also asked TfL whether the presence of any existing lift shafts at the station, which are understood to be disused, has been factored into the feasibility process. She suggested that such infrastructure might help reduce the overall cost or complexity of an upgrade.
Speaking after sending the letter, Mrs Lopez said:
“Thank you to everyone who took the time to fill in my survey. The stories residents shared were powerful and showed clearly why this station needs to be made accessible. With over 4,000 people using Hornchurch Station every day, it is vital that the needs of all users are taken into account. I want to make sure the strength of local feeling is reflected in TfL’s final decision, and I will continue pressing the case for investment."
Our step-free bid for Upminster station is making great progress. Let’s get this lift for Hornchurch too so that we can continue to improve the local transport network for everyone”
TfL has said that strong community support and potential for local or third-party funding will be key factors in determining which stations progress to the next stage. Julia has also written to the Leader of Havering Council urging formal borough support for the scheme.
