Plans to add step-free access to Mill Hill Broadway station are likely delayed, as Network Rail looks for a better-value contractor.
Network Rail said costs for the remaining work have risen, and the initial fee is beyond what they can justify for a publicly funded scheme.
The company had not disclosed a specific figure for the rising costs of the project, nor an expected length of delay.
Mill Hill ward councillor, Elliot Simberg, said that residents were frustrated and displeased by the postponement, as many people find the lack of step-free access challenging.
He said: “Residents have been angry, disappointed, frustrated.
“The three most commonly used phrases that people give examples of, is even going down to people with luggage and young children.
“Also, residents with disability issues, it’s a no go area.”
He added that parents with young children or buggies find it hard to go up and down the stairs.
Passengers with luggage have to carry their belongings up, whilst disabled people find it very difficult to use the stairs at all.
He mentioned that assistance arrangements exist but are poorly advertised, with some passengers not knowing how to use them.
Cllr Simberg also raised that he has been campaigning for improvements for about five years, and said: “We came up with the proposed idea of the lift that’s where they got it from.
“They didn’t get it from their engineers; they got it from the councillors.”
He believes that whilst the project is moving very slowly, it is progressing and that pressure should continue on those who are responsible for the delivery.
A spokesperson for Network Rail said, “We’ve therefore taken the decision to retender the contract to seek a better value solution for taxpayers, which is likely to delay the project.
“We know this will be disappointing for passengers, particularly those who are waiting for improved accessibility at the station. However, we remain committed to delivering step-free access and are now focused on appointing a delivery partner as quickly as possible.
“We’ll keep everyone updated on timescales once a contractor has been appointed and the revised programme has been confirmed.”
Retendering means looking for various bids in competition for a better-value contractor to finish off the remainder of the work.
Featured image: Nathan Zaroovabeli
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