Endless wait for disabled football fans travelling to Walsall's Bescot Stadium by train
The MP for Walsall and Bloxwich has slammed Network Rail over false promises made to improve accessibility at Bescot Stadium railway station. The station currently has no step-free access on any platform.
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In November 2023, Network Rail promised MP Valerie Vaz that a solution would be found in six months’ time. But over a year later Network Rail can only confirm that it is ‘in discussion’ with West Midlands Rail Executive about ‘potential’ funding for ‘possible’ future improvements.
Footie fans requiring step-free access have to miss the Bescot stop and get off at Walsall or Tame Bridge Parkway. From there they must find alternative public transport suitable for wheelchairs to get to the stadium.
According to RailStats, over 150,000 passengers used Bescot Station for the year 2023/24. The station serves home and away fans for Walsall FC and Aston Villa WFC matches at the stadium, as well as visitors to the popular Bescot Market.
Valerie Vaz described Network Rail’s response as unacceptable. She said: “Constituents have made it clear that they need accessibility and safety improvements at this station. Disabled people and parents with pushchairs cannot use the stairs, which impacts home and away fans using the station for matches.
“At a meeting in November 2023 Network Rail promised a solution will be found in six months. I was informed by Network Rail that Bescot Stadium Station is on the list for 2027.
“This is unacceptable. My constituents cannot wait that long for a right that is enshrined in the Railways Act 1993, Human Rights Act 1998 and Equalities Act 2010.
“My constituents are not interested in a feasibility study of a feasibility study. They just need a solution of two lifts on either side of the walkway.”
A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “With all our transport partners, we want to provide the best railway for passengers across the West Midlands, which includes being able to access services as easily as possible.
“Unfortunately, Bescot station does not currently have step-free access for passengers. We are in discussion with Transport for West Midlands and West Midlands Rail Executive to see what work would be needed and what potential funding sources might be an option for any possible future improvements.
“We will continue this effort, and engage with the MP in Bescot, as we all work towards providing a better railway for passengers and local communities.”
