T4K3.news

Disabled lifts at Leatherhead Station called inadequate

A wheelchair user complains about the new lifts' size and comfort at Leatherhead Station.

July 31, 2025 at 05:01 AM

Disabled lifts at Leatherhead Station 'too small' for wheelchair

Concerns arise over the accessibility of new lifts at Leatherhead Station following user feedback.

Disabled lifts at Leatherhead Station fail to meet accessibility needs

A wheelchair user has expressed dissatisfaction with the newly installed accessibility lifts at Leatherhead Station in Surrey. Vikki Walton-Cole, speaking on BBC Radio Surrey, described the lifts as very uncomfortable and highlighted that the entrances are too small for her wheelchair. Part of a £6.2 million investment, the lifts must accommodate not only the user but also luggage or additional passengers, making the current dimensions inadequate. Lucy McAuliffe, Network Rail's Sussex and Surrey route director, acknowledged these concerns and expressed regret over the issues raised by Walton-Cole.

Key Takeaways

✔️

Recent lifts at Leatherhead Station were criticized for being too small for wheelchair users.

✔️

User feedback indicated that the lifts are uncomfortable and insufficient in size.

✔️

The £6.2 million investment raises questions about effectiveness in improving accessibility.

✔️

Public transportation must improve to meet the needs of all users, particularly disabled individuals.

✔️

Network Rail has acknowledged the concerns but concrete solutions remain unclear.

✔️

Better collaboration with disabled advocacy groups is essential for future infrastructure projects.

"The lifts are very uncomfortable and virtually impossible to use with luggage or another person."

Vikki Walton-Cole expresses frustration over the design flaws of the new lifts.

"I am sorry to hear there are concerns about the new lifts."

Lucy McAuliffe responds to feedback regarding accessibility issues.

This situation sheds light on a broader issue regarding the adequacy of accessibility features in public transportation. The significant investment does not appear to translate to functional improvements for all users. This highlights a growing need for future projects to prioritize actual user experience over bureaucratic compliance. Such concerns should urge transport authorities to engage more effectively with disabled communities to ensure investments lead to genuine accessibility improvements.

Highlights

Accessibility must mean more than just compliance with regulations.
Public transport should be for everyone, not just the able-bodied.
Investing millions does not guarantee true accessibility for all.
Engaging with disabled communities is crucial for effective transport solutions.

Concerns over disabled access at public transport facilities

The criticism of the new lifts points to a significant risk in ensuring proper accessibility for disabled users, raising important questions about infrastructure investment.

This case highlights the continued challenges in making public transport truly inclusive for everyone.

🏷️

accessibility wheelchair transportation surrey network rail transportation disability infrastructure

Enjoyed this? Let your friends know!