Agenda item

Councillor Larratt discussed that a number of ‘operational’ questions were asked at the last meeting with Network Rail that could not be answered and were referred to London Midland. These questions are outlined below (followed by answers from DW and PT):

a)   What alternative access will be provided if the lift breaks down?

White light crossing to the other platforms is the only option, as happens currently. If this crossing fails, the individual would need to travel to the next station – London Midland would provide a taxi for you.

b)   Will there be ‘assistance points’ in the station and on the platform?

Platforms not changing at all, canopies still same and help points the same.

RS asked what would happen if there are not any staff members around to assist disabled people. DW advised that the Customer Information Point is manned with 2 members of staff from 4:45am -12:15am. Any breakages in staff are covered by management. It would be unlikely that there will not be staff around to assist those who need extra assistance.

c)    Accessibility issues

HS said that he and SW spoke to Network Rail accessible signage at the last forum meeting, who agreed that they would liaise with London Midland to contact NAB to discuss further. HS asked whether London Midland would be contacting NAB. DW advised that she invited SW to a meeting last week, but unfortunately she was unable to make it. London Midland is keen to work with NAB. However, in reference to signage, London Midland has to work to a standard with signs – these do meet standards of 2011. JW said that although the signage meets standards, it is also important to look at the location of signs and incremental changes.

JW felt that it has been disappointing that a meeting was offered last year for NAB to be involved at a very early stage with Network Rail and London midland, and until last week they had not had any contact. NAB would like to work with London Midland to publicise the changes. DW advised that until last meeting with Network Rail, she had not been made aware of any requests to meet and to have input. DW asked that NAB and London Midland make appointment an appointment for a meeting together in order to work together.

MB asked whether there will be signage directing people to bus stops. DW said that this would be dealt with by the project manage who is organising the signage. DW has not personally seen the signage designs yet, however she will follow this up with the relevant staff and will come back with a response.

Wider accessibility issues were also discussed, including whether there will be material available on the opening date about lifts, buttons, and how to access. A further question was asked about the accessibility of the ramp. DW advised that the plan is that there will be a graduated walk way which will be accessible from the front of the building. A question was asked as to whether this would be safe for disabled people with guide dogs – ACTION: DW could not answer this question but would take this back to Network Rail for an answer.

Other questions:

Cllr. Larratt asked how the next stage of the development will work. Key elements of this were the car park, how this will link across to the station, where taxis will be able to drop off, and whether disabled parking would be in the vicinity of access to bridge. DW advised that this would be a Network Rail development. However, whole heartedly support the points about accessibility and ensuring disabled parking in an accessible space.

AP raised concerns about the temporary access and wheelchair access, and felt that this is currently dangerous. AP suggested that signage may be useful as she did not think that there is any signage from path to stairs. AP also claimed that there were holes in the ground unmarked on the site which may be dangerous for a wheelchair. PT apologised for the holes in the car park – these would be checked first thing in the morning. If holes are on site, caused by contractors, they will be asked to fill in and make good.

DW asked that if anyone has any further questions or queries regarding the project that is best to direct these to the project manager and management team.

DW advised that the actual opening date on the station is Monday 1st September, rather than Sunday 24^th August – as advised by Network Rail at the last meeting.