TfL start to show sense on Caledonian Road lifts but could do better

Caroline Pidgeon, the Liberal Democrat London Assembly transport spokesperson, commenting on the decision by Transport for London to review its work programme and to now delay the closure date of Caledonian Road tube station to the 14th March so as not to coincide with the closure of nearby Tufnell Park station, which is due to re-open on Monday 7th March. said:

“This decision at least shows some commonsense finally being shown by TfL.

“It is incredible that TfL never understood from the outset just how much disruption the simultaneous closure of both Tufnell Park Tube station and Caledonian Road would create for many Islington residents.

“However, I remain disappointed that TfL are still refusing to consider options to keep Caledonian Road station open while refurbishing the lifts. As the station has a vacant vent shaft there is the option of installing totally new lifts at the station which would not involve the station having to completely close for 7.5 months next year. Passenger numbers have greatly increased at the station so closing the station will have a massive impact on the ever increasing number of people who live and work in the area.

“With the Piccadilly Line having such an appalling record on the number of step free stations the last thing we need is one of the few accessible stations being completely closed for such a long period of time next year.”

Caroline has presented a massive petition to the Mayor against this closure on behalf of local residents and workers.