Enhance Wheelchair Accessibility at Stations, Users Urge
A recent development has raised hopes for improved accessibility at Castle Cary station in Somerset. Local wheelchair user Jane Wickenden expressed her pleasure at the possibility of step-free access being introduced. Currently, navigating the station can be complicated, as Wickenden often relies on station staff to help her cross the tracks.
Enhancing Wheelchair Accessibility at Stations
The UK government has announced nearly £280 million in funding aimed at enhancing accessibility for passengers at multiple railway stations. Among these is Castle Cary, which is now moving into the detailed design phase for its step-free access project.
Progress and Funding
Castle Cary station, which operates on the main line to London Paddington, is one of two stations in Somerset, along with Yeovil Junction, progressing towards improved accessibility. Councillor Richard Wilkins, who leads transportation efforts at Somerset Council, highlighted the importance of making a strong case for this project, although he noted that funding has only been secured for the design phase. Construction will depend on the outcomes of this initial work.
User Challenges and Experience
Wickenden, who has cerebral palsy, uses Castle Cary station several times each year. She pointed out that only one of the station’s three platforms currently has step-free access. Relying on a staffed level crossing has proven uncomfortable, especially during times when no staff are present. “The constant need to find workarounds for inadequate access is quite tiring,” Wickenden stated.
- Castle Cary station experiences significant user challenges due to lack of step-free access.
- Wickenden often resorts to taking a taxi when accessible options are unavailable.
Current Accessibility Landscape
According to the campaign group Transport for All, about a quarter of the UK’s railway stations provide step-free access. Additionally, only 11% of these stations have staff present at all times.
- 4 out of 10 national railway stations in Somerset lack independent step-free access.
In a parliamentary statement, Rail Minister Lord Hendy reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing railway access. He outlined plans for eight key step-free schemes and mentioned that 23 other projects are set to enter the design stage.
Future Outlook
Yeovil Junction has successfully reached the design phase, with plans to finalize designs by the end of autumn 2027. The government emphasizes that the enhancements will allow disabled passengers, older individuals, and families with pushchairs to travel with increased confidence.
While progress is being made, Deborah Persaud from Transport for All cautioned that many will be disappointed by the limited number of stations selected for improvements. She noted, “At this rate, it could take 100 years to achieve full accessibility at every station in the UK.” Further advocacy for improved accessibility remains essential as the railway network evolves.
