Underground Gets More Wide Aisle Gates

Wide aisle gates at 180 Tube stations means more independent and quicker journeys, according to the TFL.

In order to help wheelchair and guide dog users, parents with buggies and passengers with luggage a further batch of wide aisle gates have been installed making a total of 348 gates at London Underground stations.

Now 180 London Tube stations - two thirds of the entire London Underground network - have these gates installed, giving passengers more independence and quicker journeys.

It means that customers don't have to ask staff to unlock a gate for them. In turn staff have more time to help customers in a variety of other ways:  at ticket machines, by directing them to the correct platforms, or by guiding visually impaired customers.

Howard Collins, London Underground's Chief Operating Officer said:

"The installation of wide aisle gates at Wood Green Tube station - marks the completion of a total of 348 of these wider gates.

"It is a real benefit for many disabled customers making their journeys more independent and quicker, as well as for passengers who have buggies, dogs and luggage."

Dr Alice Maynard, Managing Director of Future Inclusion and Chair of TfL's Independent Disability Advisory Group, said:

"Wide aisle gates mean that people can travel around without relying so much on support if they don't need it.  That means it's better for disabled people and better for staff - they can focus their attention on those who really need their support."

The Mayor of London's election manifesto outlined his determination to do as much as he can to make it easier for all Londoners, including disabled and older people and parents with buggies, to use our transport network.

The wide aisle gates will benefit many thousands of passengers every year and his accessibility action plan also sets out an aim for half of the rail network to be step free by the end of the decade.