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July 28.2025

2 Minutes Read

Chepstow Train Station Accessibility: A Call to Action from Peter Fox

‘Accessibility at Chepstow Can’t Wait’ warns Fox

Accessibility Concerns at Chepstow Train Station

In a pressing call for change, Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, Peter Fox, is urging Network Rail to take decisive action on improving accessibility at Chepstow Train Station. During a recent council meeting in Monmouthshire, significant issues regarding access for disabled passengers were voiced. Currently, those needing to reach the westbound platform face a cumbersome detour to either Lydney or Gloucester before they can continue on their journey.

The Push for Action from Local Leaders

Cllr Paul Pavia emphasized the unacceptable nature of this situation, stating, "In this day and age, it is completely unacceptable that disabled people are having to travel in the opposite direction, just to access a platform." He and his fellow Councillor, Christopher Edwards, have urged the council to press Network Rail for necessary improvements, highlighting that step-free access is not merely desirable but mandatory under the legal framework.

Network Rail's Delayed Response

Fox has formally written to Network Rail's Managing Director for Wales and the Western region, pushing for a clear timeline on when these vital accessibility upgrades will be implemented. The issue has been ongoing for five years, a frustration expressed by Edwards: "I am deeply disappointed that Network Rail is still in breach of the Equality Act." Despite underspending on the government’s ‘Access for All’ program, Network Rail has yet to allocate resources for Chepstow's improvements.

A Call for Accountability

The local community and their representatives are advocating for accountability and swift action from Network Rail, with hopes of aligning Chepstow's accessibility upgrades alongside the approved Transport Hub project. As travel continues to recover post-pandemic, ensuring equal access remains a critical priority.

The Impact of Accessibility Improvements

Making these improvements is more than just an obligation; it transforms lives. Access to transport is fundamental for independence, especially for those with mobility issues. As Fox aptly put it, these enhancements are "life changing for some, and everyone should have the right to easy access." The push for change represents not just a hope for future travel, but an urgent necessity for fairness and equality in public transport.

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Chepstow Train Station Accessibility: A Call to Action from Peter Fox

Accessibility Concerns at Chepstow Train Station

The Push for Action from Local Leaders

Network Rail's Delayed Response

A Call for Accountability

The Impact of Accessibility Improvements

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