Key information
Petition presented by: Valerie Shawcross
Date petition submitted: Wednesday 20 July 2011
Petition presented at: London Assembly Plenary
Summary of petition
“We, the undersigned commuters who use Crystal Palace station call on the Mayor of London and Chair of Transport for London, Boris Johnson to ensure that funds are made available to provide step free access to platforms at the station and reopen the former ticket hall.”
Response information
Name of person responding: The Mayor
Response date: Wednesday 17 August 2011
“As you know, many of the railway stations in south London were built over 150 years ago with little or no provision for the needs of disabled travellers or passengers with prams and pushchairs. I am determined to tackle this legacy of poor accessibility but can understand the views of those whoare frustrated by the pace of improvement. Crystal Palace is a particularly difficult station with a major street and platform level difference.
“Given the large number of stations requiring investment in step-free access, it is particularly important that resources are managed to obtain the largest benefit for every pound spent. To this end, the final design to improve the station's facilities and enhance its accessibility has been subject to review to ensure that the scheme delivers value for money and reflects operational requirements. Transport for London has made an application for funding from the Department for Transport's new 'Access for All Mid-Tier Programme'. TfL should receive an indication of whether the application has been successful in September. Subject to securing funding, TfL expects to be able to commence work on the scheme by late 2011. Your assistance in registering your support for the project with the DfT now, while we are awaiting the DfT's decision, would be greatly appreciated.
“London Overground participates in and fully supports the Assisted Passenger Reservation System (APRS) to ensure that customers can book assistance for their entire journey. If disabled passengers need assistance for a journey, they can contact the Customer Services Team on 0845 601 4867, ideally giving 24 hours notice - especially when the journey continues beyond London Overground.
“Additionally, all London Overground station staff receive training on how to help customers with accessibility issues and staff are available at all London Overground managed stations during train operating hours.
“I would also like to outline that the current refurbishment programme of London Overground stations will improve the accessibility at all stations managed by London Overground, providing as a minimum:
• Improved information for Customer Information Screens and PA announcements;
• Corduroy tactile finishes at the top and bottom of stairs, with tactile bumps at platform edges;
• High visibility nosing of stairs, high grip surfaces on stairs;
• Dual, not cold to touch, handrails;
• Portable train boarding ramps.
“Work at all London Overground managed stations is expected to be completed by the end of this year.”