Burnham-On-Sea MP Ashley Fox has raised fresh concerns in Parliament about the lack of step‑free access at Highbridge & Burnham railway station, calling for urgent action to improve accessibility across the rail network.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Ashley Fox highlighted that neither Highbridge nor Bridgwater stations currently offer step‑free access between platforms.
He told MPs that passengers with mobility impairments are forced to leave the station, navigate uneven pavements and cross busy roads simply to change platforms.
He asked the Leader of the House to grant Government time for a debate on rail accessibility, saying the issue affects communities across the country and must be addressed to ensure stations are “usable for everyone”.
In response, the Leader of the House acknowledged the concerns and pointed to £303 million of Government investment through the national Access for All programme.
He also committed to seeking an update from the relevant Minister on what this funding could mean for the constituency.
The intervention follows Ashley Fox’s recent visit to Highbridge & Burnham station, where he used a mobility scooter to experience the journey between platforms first‑hand.
The route required leaving the station entirely, travelling along the Walrow road bridge, and re‑entering on the opposite side — a process he described as difficult and, at times, unsafe.
Ashley Fox says: “People should be able to use our railway stations safely and with dignity. At the moment, that simply isn’t the case in Highbridge and Bridgwater. I saw for myself how challenging it is for those with mobility issues. That is not acceptable, and I will continue working with Burnham and Highbridge Town Council to press for the improvements needed so that everyone can access our rail network with confidence.”
Local councillors and accessibility campaigners have long argued that step‑free access is essential for residents, visitors, and commuters — particularly in a growing town like Highbridge. The MP’s comments add further pressure for progress on upgrades.
