UPDATE: The Department of Transport has announced funding to make railway stations more accessible and Network Rail have asked for nominations from MPs for stations to benefit from this.
I nominated Raynes Park and Motspur Park Stations and I am delighted to say that Network Rail have included both in their submission.
The Department for Transport will announce the successful stations in April next year. This is a highly competitive process and funding is not guaranteed, but Network Rail have said they will continue to work with me to consider other possible funding sources if necessary.
Raynes Park – I made the point the station is only partly accessible for wheelchair users, and I have had reports that passengers are often guided to Wimbledon to change platforms. Furthermore, Raynes Park has many young families and I regularly receive requests from constituents for step free access from those with pushchairs. The station benefits from a very active residents group dedicated to upgrading the surrounding area and campaigning for improvements for the station
Motspur Park – This station offers a vital public transport service in the middle of a residential area. The lack of step free access renders Motspur Park inaccessible for wheelchair users and again is difficult to access for those with pushchairs. Moreover the station is adjacent to Blossom House School for children with speech, language and communication difficulties, some of whom would benefit from better accessibility.