BCP Council has broken its promise and axed its share of the funding for lifts at Pokesdown Station.

That decision u-turns on a commitment it made in 2022 and sends a signal that accessibility needs to be convenient.

Step-free access has been delayed for more than a decade. For many, the stairs at Pokesdown Station have been a barrier to a simple train journey, necessitating diversions via Bournemouth that take longer and cost more.

This is happening while the council continues to find money for other projects and layers of local administration, like forcing a Bournemouth Town Council upon us.

Residents are entitled to expect that accessibility is treated as essential infrastructure, not a discretionary extra that can be cut when it becomes inconvenient.

As your MP, I’ll make sure your views are truly heard and represented to the council before the council Cabinet discuss the plans on the 11th.

Add Your Name

We, the undersigned, petition BCP Council to reinstate its committed funding for lifts and step-free access at Pokesdown Station.

BCP Council should honour its promise, recommit the funding it agreed in 2022, and work with South Western Railway and Network Rail to secure a clear delivery plan and timetable.


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