Construction has commenced at Northolt to transform it into the next Tube station offering step-free access. Transport for London (TfL) is committed to keeping the station operational throughout the project, which includes the installation of a new footbridge and lift for island platform access.
Located on the West Ruislip branch of the Central line, Northolt will soon provide step-free access from street to platform, with boarding ramps available to assist passengers with accessibility needs. This project, funded by TfL, is slated for completion by summer 2026.
The commencement of work at Northolt follows similar developments at Leyton Tube station. Additionally, design efforts are underway at various locations across London to increase the number of step-free stations on the TfL network, aligning with the Mayor’s ambitious goal of making 50 percent of Tube stations step-free.
Stuart Harvey, Chief Capital Officer at Transport for London, said:
"Northolt Tube station becoming step-free will benefit thousands of customers in the area and make the station more accessible for those using it.”
"We will continue to work at pace to identify where step-free schemes can make a difference to our customers, and work with partners to deliver those schemes. Northolt station will remain open during these works, and we will work with contractors to ensure we minimise any disruption to our neighbours while this crucial construction work is completed."
Ealing Council leader, Peter Mason, said: "It’s great to see that this work is back on track after the pandemic. It will make such a big difference to people in Northolt, especially those with mobility issues, parents with pushchairs, carers and older residents. This is a significant step forward towards making public transport in our community fairer and accessible to all."
Bassam Mahfouz, London Assembly Member for Ealing and Hillingdon, said: "Northolt is an incredibly busy station and local residents deserve the right to have an accessible platform to connect them into central London and beyond. I was delighted to gain the commitment previously. Now with COVID out of the way, it's full steam ahead to open up the station to parents with buggies, shoppers, the elderly and disabled, really putting Northolt on the map."
During the ongoing construction, the width of the island platform will be temporarily reduced due to fencing around the work areas. To ensure passenger safety during peak hours, station staff will be present on the platform. TfL will keep residents and local representatives informed with regular updates as the project progresses.
Northolt Tube station is part of the Superloop SL9 route, connecting Heathrow to Harrow. The addition of step-free access at Northolt will provide new travel options for those heading to Heathrow Airport via the fully step-free Superloop services.
Currently, over a third of Underground stations in the capital are step-free, and TfL is committed to increasing this number to create a more accessible and inclusive transport network.
The improvement project at Northolt was delayed in 2020, necessitating new analysis and design before work could resume. As part of the project, the existing public toilets will close in April 2025, with new, accessible facilities set to open upon the project's completion.
Image credit: Transport for London
