Lib Dems welcome funds for access to rail stations but ask why Peckham Rye must lose out (Southwark Liberal Democrats)

Southwark Liberal Democrats <info@southwark-libdems.org.uk>

Lib Dems welcome funds for access to rail stations but ask why Peckham Rye must lose out

April 6, 2006 11:35 PM

Southwark Liberal Democrats have welcomed the news that Denmark Hill and Herne Hill train stations are to receive government funding for improvements to accessibility, but are asking why Peckham Rye station hasn't been included in the funding.

Last month Cllr Richard Thomas wrote on behalf of Southwark Transport Forum to Transport Secretary Alistair Darling asking for information on when Southwark's 11 stations would be upgraded under the Access for All scheme to improve disability access. At that time the government had identified Herne Hill and Peckham Rye as Band 2 priorities and Denmark Hill as a Band 3 priority.

The government has now published the full list of stations to receive the first round of funding for a feasibility study into how access can be improved and Herne Hill and Denmark Hill stations have both been chosen.

Commenting, Cllr Richard Thomas, Lib Dem Executive Member for Transport, said:

"Improving access to our rail stations is long overdue and after sustained pressure funds have now been pledged to improve Herne Hill and Denmark Hill."

"After nearly ten years of this Labour Government it is a disgrace that this is just 2 stations out of Southwark's 11 that need accessibility works."

"Southwark Lib Dems will continue to put pressure on Ministers and rail companies to ensure all of Southwark's stations become accessible for everyone."

Neil Parker, Liberal Democrat candidate in Peckham Rye, added:

"It's extremely disappointing that once again Peckham Rye station has been overlooked by the government."

"I understand there has to be a priority list, but it's not clear why Peckham Rye has been relegated when the government had initially identified it as a priority.

"Peckham Rye station is such a major interchange for so many local residents and businesses and should be higher up the priority list for better access."