Campaigners have expressed strong disappointment after a crucial disability access scheme at Birmingham’s Small Heath railway station was cancelled due to budget constraints. The station had been included among 50 locations slated for step-free access improvements in a project announced earlier this year.
However, Small Heath is one of 19 stations where upgrades have been scrapped amid concerns over affordability and value for money. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from disability advocates, particularly the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).
Erik Matthies, RNIB’s policy lead for travel and transport, highlighted the significant risks posed by the lack of accessible facilities. “The government’s Access for All programme aimed to provide obstacle-free, step-free routes from station entrances to platforms, which is essential for tens of thousands of blind and partially sighted passengers,” he said.
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Matthies added that many stations still lack basic accessibility features, which increases the risk of trips and injuries, sometimes deterring blind or partially sighted individuals from using the stations entirely. He also noted that the absence of staff at many stations exacerbates accessibility challenges and called on the government to reverse its decision and fulfill promised improvements.
In response to the backlash, the government explained that the previous administration’s announcement of 50 station upgrades did not include a funding plan, leading to unrealistic expectations. The current administration emphasized its commitment to a careful, value-for-money approach, selecting projects based on criteria such as passenger numbers, geographical distribution, existing technical preparations, and the availability of third-party funding.
While the government reaffirmed its dedication to improving accessibility, the scrapping of key projects like Small Heath has left campaigners urging a rethink to ensure that all passengers, regardless of ability, can travel safely and confidently.