Ten stations have been named on Transport for London’s priority list to be converted to step-free access.
They are: Alperton, Arnos Grove, Burnt Oak, Eastcote, Finchley Road, Northolt, North Acton, Rayners Lane, West Hampstead and White City.
TfL said it hoped to have the first station converted by 2026 – but admitted it would only be able to afford the upgrades if it was able to secure part funding from developers or councils.
TfL also pledged to consider how best to provide step-free access on the southern section of the Northern line between Elephant and Castle and Morden, where there is currently a “significant gap” in step-free access.
A total of 92 of the 272 Tube stations are step-free, including the 24 that have been upgraded since 2016. The target is for half to be fully accessible by 2041.
TfL aims to spend £20m a year to improve station accessibility but often needs to wait for the wider redevelopment of an area – such as at Paddington or Knightsbridge – before being able to afford to make changes.
The 10 stations will be “reviewed” for potential step-free access. Experts will consider the feasibility of new lifts, whether there is sufficient space for work to be carried out and the depth of each Tube station.
The stations have been chosen as they are spread across London and in different ticketing zones.
In addition, TfL is continuing to work with the Government and local councils to make Colindale and Leyton Tube stations step-free, after being offered cash from the Levelling Up Fund from next year.
TfL previously carried out design works at Burnt Oak and Northolt stations, but these were paused during the pandemic.
Feasibility work at other stations, such as Boston Manor, East Putney, Hatton Cross, North Ealing, Park Royal, Rickmansworth, Ruislip and Snaresbrook, could also be progressed if the investment can be found.
Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “I am committed to ensuring London’s world-class public transport network is accessible for all Londoners.
“I’m delighted to announce the next 10 Tube stations TfL will review for potential step-free access, and I am determined to keep working to deliver a public transport network that is accessible to all as we build a better, fairer London for everyone.”
TfL commissioner Andy Lord said: “More than a third of the Tube network is now step-free, and we have also delivered the step-free Elizabeth line, as well as improvements on the London Overground, but we know that we must do more to make London’s transport network truly accessible and inclusive.”
Camden councillor Adam Harrison, cabinet member for a sustainable Camden, said: “I am delighted that TfL is prioritising step free access at West Hampstead and Finchley Road stations.
“We worked closely with TfL to ensure the plans for the 02 site could help deliver these community priorities which would transform access in this part of Camden to the Tube network.”
Caroline Stickland, chief executive at Transport for All, said: “Currently, only one in three London Underground stations has step-free access. This shuts disabled people out of vast swathes of the network, forcing us to take long and convoluted routes, and even preventing us from travelling entirely.
“By offering more targeted investment to prioritise areas that will have the widest impact, this policy can make a meaningful difference to the lives of disabled Londoners.
“We also welcome the funding model which draws from local businesses and developments. We urge Transport for London and all decision-makers to work as fast as possible.”
