Concerns Raised Over Ealing Broadway Access

Fears that there will be no drop-off points close to the station

There's growing concern that plans for Ealing Broadway station redevelopment do not include suitable drop-off points for commuters.

The busy station will accommodate the new Elizabeth line/Crossrail scheduled to open in December 2019. There will be a new ticket hall, new lifts and longer platforms.

The exterior of the station also needs to undergo major alterations as by 2026, passenger numbers are expected to double with over 90,000 pedestrians per day expected.

The council will be responsible for this and say the current station entrance and surrounds are inadequate because it's difficult to manage the various traffic, cyclists, buses as well as pedestrians, in such a small area. There is now also increased concerns over public safety which needs to be addressed in the redevelopment, and alongside this, the open space at Haven Green needs protecting.

At a meeting at the Ealing Centre for Independent Living ( ECIL) the council laid out some of the proposals which include new security protection and a pedestrianised frontage. There are plans for 15 bus-stops 180 cycle docking parking stations and 18 taxi spaces in the rank but no mention of spaces to drop-off travelling commuters.

This immediately raised concerns and Arthur Breens who attended the ECIL meeting said:
'' We've waited almost 150 years for lifts to help guests with luggage, women with youngsters and buggies and the elderly and disabled to access the platforms and now we are stopped because we can't get near those lifts by car.''

Councillor Bassam Mahfouz, cabinet member for transport, environment and leisure said the plans are still in early stages and there will be a public consultation which all residents and workers are encouraged to take part.

'' Work is currently underway to develop a concept design for outside of Ealing Broadway Station to accommodate commuters and visitor’s needs.  Early thoughts have been shared with key groups to get feedback which will inform the final concept. 

''This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to improve Ealing Broadway station so we welcome everyone’s views on how it can be improved and I would encourage everyone to take part in the consultation later this year.''

Work is expected to start on Ealing Broadway frontage in January next year.

12 March 2018