Transport for London has announced that Victoria Tube station is now step-free and will improve access to the transport network for millions of people.
Seven new lifts have been installed at the underground station, making journeys step-free between the street and Victoria line trains and the District and Circle line platforms.
Passengers from the mainline station can now also travel step-free from trains to the Tube station and interchange more easily between the three Tube lines.
Victoria is the fourth busiest station on the Underground. It serves more than 79 million customers each year.
What did the officials say?
Deputy Mayor for Transport, Heidi Alexander, said:
“Victoria Underground is one our busiest stations and one of the first major Tube stations encountered by visitors to the capital. The provision of step-free access marks a major milestone, as it provides greater access to the Underground as well as vital interchanges between Tube journeys and a seamless connection with National Rail services. We are improving step-free access across our network and we are determined to do all we can to ensure our customers experience all London has to offer.”
Ruth Duston OC, OBE, Chief Executive of the Victoria Business Improvement District (BID), said:
“With more people working and visiting Victoria than ever it's important that our transport infrastructure keeps pace and continues to improve. The BID welcomes the completion of these vital improvement works, which will undoubtedly help make the experience of travelling to Victoria more pleasant and convenient.”
Transport for All Chair, Alan Benson, said:
“These eagerly anticipated lifts will transform the lives of not only disabled and older people but also the many tourists, visitors and Londoners who use this busy hub station. The challenges faced by our members to access the Underground in central London means that accessible key interchanges like this have a greater impact on their travel options. Using these lifts will open up opportunities for people to enjoy and contribute to vibrant London life where previously they have been excluded.”
Darren Williams, manager of Network Rail's Victoria Station, said:
“To finally be able to give our passengers the ability to access the underground without having to leave the station is a fantastic milestone and another step forward for the station.”
Where Next?
News Homepage
For the Latest Railway News
RailAdvent Online Shop
Framed Prints, DVD's / Blu-Ray's and more
LocoStop – The RailAdvent Community
Come and share your railway pictures
Transport for London
Visit their website
Brilliant news. Hopefully upgrades at Bank/Monument stations once completed will also be step free.