Since 'Access for All' funding for accessibility improvements to the UK rail network was introduced in 2006, around 200 stations have been made step-free. However, much of the UK rail network remains a no-go area for disabled people. Leagrave station in Luton, Bedfordshire is one of the busiest stations in the UK that is still … Continue reading It’s time for a step-free Leagrave!
Below is Bedfordshire Rail Access Network's written response following a meeting with Central Bedfordshire Council regarding the current plans for the bus station, which will form part of the Biggleswade transport interchange. You can find the full details of the plans here: Case Documents - Central Bedfordshire Council The documents take a little time to … Continue reading Disability campaigners respond to Biggleswade transport hub plans
The last year has been a significant challenge to all of us as the pandemic has affected virtually every aspect of our lives. It has brought out both the best and worst in people, as we have seen communities working together to ensure no-one is left behind, at the same time as cronyism and a … Continue reading Stepping aside but gearing up
NE Bedfordshire commuters are getting a rough deal as the Department for Transport has failed to react to the radical changes to travel behaviours caused by the pandemic. Below is my email to Richard Fuller MP on how commuters in his constituency are missing out. "As you will be aware the nature of work has … Continue reading It’s time for flexible ticketing
I've just come out of the latest meeting regarding step-free access at Biggleswade station. The latest developments are as follows: ~ following a previous meeting with our Bedfordshire Rail Access Network team I'm delighted to say that Network Rail have increased the width of the proposed walkway ramp to 2.2 metres (2 metres between hand … Continue reading Biggleswade Step-Free Update – 18th January 2021
Following our successful campaign to obtain funding for step-free access improvements at Biggleswade train station, the focus has moved to the provision of a transport hub linking the bus and rail network. For those who are not aware, lifts are due to be installed on the platforms by no later than the Winter of 2022 … Continue reading Biggleswade Bus Interchange
Dear Richard I am writing to you to express my dismay at your support of the government’s decision not to back the Labour amendment in the Free School Meals debate in the House of Commons on Wednesday evening. As you will be aware the Labour amendment had passed it would have ensured the continuation of … Continue reading Stop Holiday Hunger – email to Richard Fuller MP
We are living through unprecedented times and my work has been dominated by the effects of the pandemic, so it was a welcome change to attend the latest Zoom meeting today regarding progress on step-free access at Biggleswade train station. Attendees at the meeting included lead designers and sponsors from Network Rail, Richard Fuller MP, … Continue reading Biggleswade Step-Free Update 29th June
It is said that most political careers inevitably end in failure. I seem to have turned this statement on its head and started my journey with a series of defeats! I've been reminded that it is a year since the local government elections. This made me reflect what a year it had been and how … Continue reading A turbulent year
On Monday I sent out an update to all Labour members across our local Labour Party in NE Bedfordshire. I realised that our day to day lives had changed monumentally since I previously sent out an update - just five weeks earlier. Further, and although seeming almost trivial in comparison to drama and tragedy of … Continue reading NE Beds CLP Chair’s Update
Julian Vaughan 