Liberal Democrat Approved Scheme on Track

12.00.00am GMT Sat 20th Sep 2003

Councillor Martin Elengorn, Liberal Democrat Spokesman for Transport

The new-look Twickenham Railway Station, complete with dramatic, eye-catching statue on the revamped forecourt is now complete. The massive refurbishment, which includes better access for people with disabilities was approved by the then Liberal Democrat led Richmond Council.

The facelift results from an alliance between Richmond Upon Thames Council, Transport for London (TfL); South West Trains, and SWELTRAC - the South West regional group of transport bodies.

Councillor Martin Elengorn, Liberal Democrat Spokesman for Transport said, "This is one of the fruits of the SWELTRAC partnership with nearby boroughs and the transport operators which the Liberal Democrat Council pioneered in the 1990s."

The station's interior has had a huge makeover and refurbished to improve access with a stair lift to the main platform.

The building has a new canopy and facade and the main entrance now boasts electric sliding doors. The station platforms have been repainted.

A special entrance has been created for access from the upgraded car park direct to the platform to provide greater safety and convenience for people with disabilities.

Security has been boosted by the removal of a wall overlooking the car park, and its replacement with a metal post fence.

The station forecourt has been refurbished to improve pedestrian facilities in and around the entrance. There are new cycle facilities too and a pelican crossing has been provided nearby to make access to the station easier and safer.

In addition, bus stops have been moved so that they are close to and easily accessible from the station.

Councillor Elengorn added, "The Twickenham Station scheme itself was approved by the Liberal Democrat Council in 2000 and I am delighted it is now complete. It will bring substantial benefits to public transport users, pedestrians and cyclists, groups whom the Tory Council are giving less priority in schemes approved since May 2002."