After a seven year campaign, Alec has finally secured funding for disabled access at Garforth Train Station.
Funding was originally allocated under the previous government’s Access for All scheme but was then removed in 2007 without notice or explanation. Local rail users have since been campaigning with Alec to secure funding and improve access at the station.
Today, Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin announced: “After years of false starts and broken promises under Labour, it is a testament to the local Conservative MP Alec Shelbrooke’s persistent campaigning that I can announce that this scheme is finally happening for the people of Garforth”.
Forty-two train stations in England, Scotland and Wales, including Garforth, will receive a share of a £100 million government fund to improve access for disabled passengers.
Alec said: “This is fantastic news for my constituency. Until now disabled residents in Garforth have not been able to access the second platform so I’m grateful to the Secretary of State for listening to our arguments and agreeing to fund this vital project”.
Garforth resident Mrs Morris said: “We’ve waited far too long for disabled access at Garforth. The elderly, disabled and those with pushchairs have not been able to use the station so we’re extremely grateful to Alec for fighting alongside us to deliver this disabled access”.
Detailed designs and costing for each station will be drawn up by Network Rail in due course.