MP dismayed by high cost of rail revamp

High Peak MP Ruth George has ‘expressed disappointment’ over news that proposed ‘accessibility work’ to Chinley Station will cost more than £2m.

She says Network Rail calculated the cost last year at £450,000.

Mrs George said: “Chinley Station is completely inaccessible to most people with a disability. The steep metal bridge to both platforms means it also can’t be used by many who are unsteady on their feet, or just carrying heavy luggage or a pushchair.

“It’s unacceptable that the village which contains key disability provision for Derbyshire at Peak School and the Alderbrook Centre can’t be used by so many of the people who are visiting.”

In a statement, the MP went on: “The news that Network Rail’s estimates were wrong means the proposal for lifts at Chinley no longer qualifies for an application to the Mid-Tier Funding scheme which I and local campaigners had been hoping, following Chinley’s refusal for Access for All funding.

“This will be hugely disappointing for all the people who are prevented from using the station.  

“I pay tribute to the volunteers of Chinley and Buxworth Transport Group who I’ve been supporting and know the amount of hard work they’ve done over several years to put together such a strong case for Chinley to be made accessible.

“I believe that due to the high numbers of people with disabilities and frailty who would like to use the station but are prevented from doing so, and the limited alternative options, that the station is not compliant with the Equalities Act.  

“I will be exploring this with Northern and with Chinley and Buxworth Transport Group.”