James Robertson | 25.11.2008 | 12:22
"A controversial redevelopment plan has been dealt a body blow by the listing of South Kensington and Chelsea tube station" writes the Evening Standard this morning. The proposals were an 11-storey glass tower block and accessible shopping precinct have had to be shelved after the Culture Secretary's decision to list the 19th-century development. The news causes great concern for disabled people who had eagerly anticipated the access improvements that the redevelopment would have brought. Top of the list being lift access and improved station signage.
But how much longer do the human rights of disabled people have to be undermined? For how much longer will we be denied the freedom of movement in our capital city? I understand the need to economic prudence at this time, but money should be ring-fenced for making the necessary improvements to London's existing infrastructure in order to allow all its residents to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. The tube is the transport hub of London and should be accessible to all.
The decision will also have ramifications for surrounding businesses as well. The V & A, Natural History and Science museums have all written to TfL to complain after the scheme for step-free access at South Kensington station has been abandoned. TfL had initially said that it was likely that a wheel would be installed for wheelchair users but has since back-tracked, saying it would cost £50 million and that there is simply not enough money.
I share the three museum directors' regret and would echo the sentiment expressed in their letter to TfL that the decision prevents the museums from showing “their best face in the run-up to the 2012 Olympics".
It is simply unacceptable that such national treasures should be rendered to all intents and purposes inaccessible to a whole swathe of the public despite the museums' best efforts to make their premises accessible to all.
Join the debate. If you too feel strongly everyone, regardless of impairment, should have the freedom to travel without restriction across London and that this decision by TfL marks a stumbling block in the progress towards equality of movement to disabled people, I would strongly urge you to submit your comments below this blog. If we get enough responses these concerns will be taken forward to TfL and hopefully together we can change their minds.
Comment posted by G PA Jamie 27.11.2008 | 14.28
The key issue here from the Government's perspective is that there simply is not enough money. They should then fund raise to find it or use money from the Lottery to fund this essential project as it would give a big boost to disabled people and go a long way towards their equality.
G PA Jamie Robertson
