TfL has announced plans to conduct two (of only seventeen across London) step-free access feasibility studies at Becontree and Dagenham East Underground Stations. 

Cllr Dominic Twomey, Leader of the Council, said: “I wholeheartedly welcome this decision from the Mayor of London to conduct these studies. These are two of the borough’s busiest stations, but they lack much needed step-free access. Inclusive transport options are vital for our community, especially for residents and visitors with limited mobility, parents with prams, and elderly members of our borough.

The decision follows a council campaign asking TfL to assess Becontree and Dagenham East stations.  

Cllr Twomey: “Hundreds of residents signed our petition asking for TfL to increase accessibility at Dagenham East, which the Mayor’s announcement recognised. Transport improvement remains a key priority in Barking and Dagenham and we will work closely with TfL and other partners to continue to improve transport infrastructure in our borough. 

“In just the past decade we’ve secured: 

• the Overground line extension to Barking Riverside
• the Superloop bus service
• the Thames Clipper at Barking Riverside, connecting the borough to the city
• more cycle paths and the introduction of E-bikes

“But there is more work to be done and things like step-free access are just a part of our work to provide the infrastructure our borough needs as it continues to attract investment to deliver nationally significant growth.”