Almost without fail, when discussing rail accessibility, politicians and rail industry leaders remind us that much of the UK rail network was constructed in the Victorian era. Guys, this excuse is wearing thin after 150-plus years. 'Glacial' is probably the best description of the rate of progress towards a step-free railway and this shows no … Continue reading Access for All – where’s Labour at?
This morning, the Bedfordshire Rail Access Network (BRAN) team, along with Network Rail and the contractors, visited Biggleswade station to inspect and identify any potential issues with the new ramp and lifts. Of course, the first question on everyone's lips was when the lifts would enter public service, and we were told that this would … Continue reading Biggleswade Lifts Update 28.11.25.
This blog describes my planning before the walk and the walk itself, which took place over 5 days in late September 2025 and will hopefully provide some useful hints for future walkers. The blogs I read before the walk about other people's experiences were invaluable. Why I did the Walk Although I was raised in … Continue reading Hadrian’s Wall Walk
It is with great sadness that I have made the decision to leave the Labour Party. As a General Election candidate in both 2017 and 2019, the Labour Party has been a significant part of my life over the last decade, and I have had the opportunity to meet many incredible people, both within and … Continue reading Love’s Labour’s Lost
In April this year, I wrote the following about the 'Independent Alliance' led Central Bedfordshire Council... "...It is also particularly disappointing that the current leadership of the Council seems to resent being held accountable, or being subjected to the very scrutiny they were actually once rather effective at when in opposition...". Earlier this week, I … Continue reading Accountability and CBC
In 2020, Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) set a target to plant 1 million trees by 2030. However, it has failed to set a) an annual tree planting target b) include it as one of the Council's Key Performance Indicators. As a result, it is probably little surprise from the evidence to date that tree planting … Continue reading Central Beds Council – 1m trees by 2030 (How’s it going?)
We all want to protect our families and ensure that our children are safe. Any perceived threat to our family will naturally create fear. It's a primal emotion, deeply ingrained in our psychology (far easier to stir up than love) and one that has been crucial to our survival. Unfortunately, opportunistic politicians such as Farage, … Continue reading Fear, Hate and Reform UK
Earlier today, we attended a site visit to the lift works at Biggleswade railway station. This site visit was hosted by Network Rail and apart from members of the Bedfordshire Rail Access Network team, was attended by local Town Councillors, Central Bedfordshire Councillors, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) representatives and our local MP Richard Fuller. Below … Continue reading Biggleswade Lifts Update – 23rd July 2025
*This blog, written on 26th June, has been updated on 27th June to comment on the concessions/U-Turn made by the government. Solidarity with the 100-plus Labour MPs who are taking a stand against the government to support the most vulnerable people in our communities. I can confirm that if I were in their position, I … Continue reading Who is holding Labour’s moral compass?
A post on why we should all be concerned about the Labour government's commitment to an accessible rail network. Below is a list of the 50 stations selected for 'Access for All' (A4A) funding in May 2024 by the last Conservative government. Aigburth Ash Vale Battle Bellgrove Bodmin Parkway Bredbury Bushey Castle Cary Chinley Church … Continue reading Which way now for Rail Accessibility under Labour?
Julian Vaughan 