Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 12
12
Not Addressed
Department has consistently committed to improving rail accessibility through various long-term programmes.
Conclusion
Improving accessibility runs throughout the Department’s reform ambitions and is one of the 62 commitments included in its White Paper: ‘The first robust national accessibility strategy and long-term investment programme will improve inclusion and access for all.’25 Even earlier than its White Paper commitment, the Department 18 Q 44 19 C&AG’s Report, paras 11, 1.7 20 Q 37 21 Qq 9, 89 22 Qq 89–90 23 C&AG’s Report, para 11 24 RTP0003 25 Great British Railways: The Williams Shapps Plan for Rail, CP 423, May 2021 Rail reform: The rail transformation programme 11 committed to improving access to the rail network and other modes of transport, as part of its 2018 inclusive transport strategy and has been running its Access for All programme to address the issues faced by disabled passengers since 2006.26
Government Response Summary
This conclusion references the Department's prior commitments to improving access. The government's response is the same as for IDs 7080 and 7081.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
3. PAC conclusion: It is unacceptable that so much of the rail network remains so difficult to access for so many people. 3. PAC recommendation: The Department should fulfil its commitment to improve access to the rail network for all who wish to use it and does not need to wait for further consultation or legislation to make improvements to station facilities and train services. It should report back to the Committee alongside the Treasury Minute on its plans and timetable for when stations and trains will be accessible to all. 3.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Winter 2024 3.2 Accessibility is one of the six tests the Secretary of State will measure the railways’ performance against. The department will set out next steps as soon as possible. 3.3 The department will continue to make improvements to the accessibility of the rail network. This includes continuing to support the access for all programme, which since launch has delivered accessible, step free routes at more than 250 stations and smaller accessibility improvements at over 1500 stations. 3.4 The department will also make use of the accessibility audit data of all 2,575 rail stations across Great Britain to improve passenger information on station facilities and their accessibility, and better target future investment decisions.