Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Leagrave Station: Step-free Access

09 February 2026 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Sarah Owen Lab Luton North

Transport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Sarah Owen raised concerns about leagrave station: step-free access in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Sarah Owen, MP for Luton North, expressed disappointment over the cancellation of Access for All funding for Leagrave station.
  • The Minister stated that funding decisions are based on affordability and value for money, leading to the cancellation of accessibility upgrades at Leagrave station.
  • The Minister highlighted the importance of securing local third-party funding contributions for future Access for All funding rounds.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Sarah Owen Lab Luton North

Sarah Owen, MP for Luton North, expressed her disappointment and frustration over the cancellation of Access for All funding for Leagrave station. She highlighted that the previous announcement about securing funding was misleading, leaving thousands of users with hopes dashed. Leagrave station is a major transport hub with nearly 1.5 million journeys made annually, yet it lacks step-free access which affects many, including those with mobility challenges and parents with buggies. Owen emphasised her commitment to advocating for improved public transport accessibility in her constituency.

Other contributors (2)
  • Caroline Nokes Con Broadland and Fakenham

    Apologies, I was merely commenting that the hon. Lady might not be—as longevity is increasing.

  • Keir Mather Lab Bolton South East

    It is a privilege to respond to this important debate on the potential merits of step-free upgrades at Leagrave railway station and congratulate my hon. Friend on securing it, praising her advocacy for improved public transport.

Government Response

Keir Mather

The Minister acknowledged the need for step-free access at Leagrave station but explained that funding decisions are based on affordability and value for money. He regretted that accessibility upgrades at Leagrave station will not progress due to lack of third-party funding contributions, despite its high footfall. The minister emphasised the importance of local third-party funding contributions in future Access for All funding rounds. He also suggested engaging with Luton airport and other organisations benefiting from improved step-free access to contribute funds towards the scheme. While the decision is disappointing, he highlighted positive accessibility work at neighbouring stations like Luton station, which is currently under construction for step-free access upgrades.

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