Transport for London (TfL) has launched a public consultation to help shape future step-free access priorities and improvements on the London Underground network, and the Council is urging local residents and businesses to get involved and make their voices heard in the process.



The consultation runs until 10 February 2022 and has been designed to help TfL identify what it should prioritise in making London Underground stations more accessible. The aim is to help more Londoners use the public transport network independently.



Information from the consultation responses will be used to shape and inform TfL's future approach for step-free Tube stations, should the Government provide funding for future programmes.



As part of the consultation, respondents will be asked whether they would prefer future funding to focus on upgrading a single, complex central London station, or be divided between smaller or medium sized stations located outside central London.



Over half (51%) of the TfL rail network - spanning Tube, DLR, London Overground, London Trams and TfL Rail services - is now step-free. But, with funding for such projects likely to be limited going forward, it is essential that TfL prioritises effectively, and the consultation results will help enable this. It is important, therefore, that local residents in Barking and Dagenham ensure their voice is heard as the process moves ahead.



The consultation can be accessed here: Help shape the future of step-free access on the Tube | Have Your Say Transport for London (tfl.gov.uk)



Cllr Elizabeth Kangethe, Cabinet Member and Champion for Disabled People, commented:



“As a council we are committed to seeing equality of access for all our residents, and the transport network is no exception. Whether it’s older or less able people, parents or carers, everyone should be able to get around and enjoy our city, and step-free access to the Underground is a vital part of this. That’s why I would encourage all residents who require step-free access to the Tube to take part in this TfL consultation and make their needs known, and voices heard.”



Cllr Cameron Geddes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, commented:



“We want Barking and Dagenham to be as well connected as possible for residents, visitors and those coming for work or leisure, who might need step-free access to reach their destinations or places of employment. Widening participation in society means ensuring everyone has equivalent access, so we can all play our full part in the economy. I would encourage any local business to take part in this consultation and consider how their customers and colleagues might benefit from step-free network access.”