Transport for London has announced that passengers using Hanwell, Iver, Langley and Taplow can now benefit from step-free access from street to platform for the first time.

The upgrades are part of a programme of improvements in preparation for the Elizaveth Line.

Other station improvements to enhance the customer experience include accessible ticket office windows, accessible toilets and customer information screens.

At Hanwell, two new lifts now mean that step-free access is now available from street to platform from the southern entrance. Work is ongoing to make all entrances step-free. The ticket office has been refurbished to include an accessible window. A new waiting room is currently being installed on platform 2 with the waiting room on platform 3 being refurbished and the existing toilet converted into an accessible facility.

At Iver, a brand-new station building, including three new lifts, are providing passengers at Iver with step-free access to all platforms.

At Langley, three new lifts and a new footbridge are now in use to provide step-free access from street to platform alongside new ticket vending machines and benches.

Taplow passengers will notice similar improvements to those at Langley.

While level boarding could not be provided at all Elizabeth line stations due to the different types of trains, including freight trains, that use it. Passengers who need assistance can use the same service to that found on the Tube and London Overground.

What did the officials say?

Howard Smith, TfL Rail Director of Operations, said:

‘We are pleased that customers at Hanwell, Langley, Iver and Taplow are now benefitting from step-free access from street to platform for the first time, making their journeys easier and more comfortable.

‘These improvements come as part of a wider package of station upgrades across the TfL Rail network in preparation for the Elizabeth line.’

James Taylor, Director of Strategy and Social Change at disability equality charity Scope, said:

‘It’s vital that we make our capital’s public transport system as accessible as possible.

‘Changes like step-free access and accessible toilets could make a huge difference to someone’s journey.

‘A genuinely inclusive transport network will allow disabled people to get to work, see friends and family and live independently.

‘Positive progress has been made, but rail companies and the Government must continue to step-up their work to make all public transport truly inclusive.’

Cllr Wendy Matthews, Chairman of Iver Parish Council said:

‘The new Iver station with its step-free access and additional facilities will be a significant addition to our local community and enhance the experience for our residents that use the station for commuting and encourage others to use it to travel widely on the new TfL Rail services.’

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