CUMBRIAN MP SUPPORTS ACCESSIBILITY IMPROVEMENTS FOR OXENHOLME AND ULVERSTON STATIONS

This week, South Lakes MP Tim Farron has written to the Transport Secretary in support of two applications within South Cumbria for the Access for All Scheme. The scheme is designed to supply obstacle free, accessible routes into train stations across the country. Two bids within South Lakeland have been submitted; for Oxenholme station and Ulverston.

Oxenholme is currently the only station along the West Coast Main Line without step free access. As the main gateway to the Lake District and the surrounding areas, with direct links to cities such as Manchester, London, and Glasgow it is the busiest station in the Lakes. Passengers are currently being forced to ascend a non-compliant ramp, which poses great challenges to wheelchair users, those with mobility issues, and parents using pushchairs.

New research shows that 85% of visitors to the Lake District are now arriving via private transport. A figure which could be reduced if Oxenholme were made suitably accessible. The bid would mean that lifts and a footbridge could be built at the station.

Furthermore, the role of public transport within Ulverston is vital. With South Lakeland's 'super aging' population of 28.5% of residents aged 65 or over, an accessible station is crucial to supporting the local community and access to vital services such as supermarkets and Doctor's offices. Platform 3 at Ulverston station is only accessible via steps. For those unable to use steps they must use the barrow crossing, a service that must be booked in advance with a member of staff always accompanying them. As the platform hosts trains southbound to Manchester Airport this is unacceptable.

Separately, Tim is working with the Government, Network Rail and train operators to make Staveley station accessible. At present, the only way to get to the station is via a 41-step staircase making it completely inaccessible to anyone with mobility difficulties or with a pushchair.

Speaking today Tim said: "As a World Heritage site, and one of the most visited places in the UK, the Lake District must improve its accessibility at stations. The situation we have at two of our busiest stations in South Lakeland is unacceptable. Everyone should be free to travel and experience the beauty of places the Lakes which is why I am fully supportive of these two bids to the Access for All funding."