For Nathan Rollinson, who uses a wheelchair, the absence of step-free access at Peckham Rye station in southeast London necessitates a longer journey home.
“I often finish work around midnight or sometimes even as late as 1 am,” he shared. “By the time I finally return home, it can be 3 or 4 am. If there were a station I could access easily, I could make it home in just 45 minutes.”
Peckham Rye is believed to be the busiest interchange station in London that lacks step-free access.
Plans to add lifts were postponed after the Department for Transport (DfT) reduced funding during June’s spending review, stating it aimed to focus on projects “that will most significantly benefit passengers and promote economic growth.”
Mr. Rollinson expressed his frustration: “There are times when I wonder if I’d be better off on benefits.”
“It’s emotionally exhausting. The last thing you want to deal with after work is a four-hour bus ride home alongside rowdy, intoxicated passengers.”
Terry Titheradge noted that since his wife began using a wheelchair two years ago, her independence has diminished considerably.
“When we go shopping and she needs to walk a considerable distance, we have to take her wheelchair,” he explained. “However, we can’t navigate the stairs at Peckham Rye station. This forces us to take a taxi, which costs £70 for a round trip, just for a day of shopping.”
“Coping with a heavy wheelchair while carrying a person is simply impossible. It’s not just an issue for wheelchair users; it’s a challenge for blind individuals, mothers with strollers, and elderly shoppers carrying heavy bags. Yet nobody seems to care.”
The proposed enhancement would have included a new entrance and lifts for every platform.
A DfT spokesperson mentioned, “The project will remain under consideration as part of our list of initiatives for prospective development in the future when funding allows.”
Meanwhile, Southwark Council is advancing with plans to revamp the station square, which will involve removing a 1930s arcade and creating a new public area with greenery, seating, and restored arches for local businesses.
Network Rail has stated it will continue collaborating with the government regarding the station’s long-term prospects.
