MP’s success in rail campaign
12th November 2009
Aberavon MP Dr Hywel Francis has claimed a significant progress in his campaign to improve access to Port Talbot Parkway railway station today for people with disabilities and other rail users.
Dr Hywel Francis MP (second right) and Mrs Siân James MP presenting the petition to Mr Tim Bell and Mr Michael Vaughan of Arriva Trains Wales.
He presented a petition backed by nearly 2,000 signatures and a wide range of disability and community organisations to Arriva Trains Wales senior executives.
Dr Francis said,
‘I am delighted that, following a meeting with senior representatives of Arriva Trains Wales this week, I am able to announce that very positive steps are being taken to resolve the issue of access at Port Talbot Parkway station.’
‘The Company has assured me of its strong commitment in this matter and explained the progress being made in securing the necessary funding through the DfT’s National Stations Improvement Programme.’
‘A bid for European funding has also been made which has the potential to realise a facility which will enable all members of our community to have access to the train services serving Port Talbot.’
‘In the short-term, Arriva Trains Wales has agreed to investigate immediately the possibility of providing an alternative arrangement to improve access to the platform.’
Dr Francis added,
‘I would like to thank all those who have supported the campaign particularly the disability and community organizations and the Equality and Human Rights Commission in Wales.’
‘Could I also thank my neighbouring MP Siân James who is chair of the All Party Group on Railways in Wales who has supported the campaign.’
Siân James MP stated,
‘This is a vital equality issue not only for people with disabilities but also for the elderly carrying suitcases and parents with small children using push chairs. I congratulate Hywel and his constituents on their significant success’.
