Wales Town Struggles as Mums and Seniors Can’t Access Train Station
Residents in Dinas Powys are frustrated as they can’t access Eastbrook station, prompting calls for better facilities.
Dinas Powys, Wales, Eastbrook Station, Accessibility, Public Transport
Dinas Powys: Folks in this Welsh town are really feeling the pinch when it comes to using their local train station. Eastbrook station is a no-go for many, especially parents with prams and older residents. They’re calling for lifts to be installed because the current overpass is just too much to handle.
Imagine having to walk nearly a mile just to switch platforms! That’s what some locals are facing. Network Rail tried to get funding from the UK Government to make things better, but they missed out. It’s frustrating because they say they want to improve accessibility, but nothing seems to be happening anytime soon.
One resident, Sean, who’s 81, shared how tough it is for him. He’s had multiple hip and knee surgeries, and the thought of climbing that bridge is daunting. He’s not alone; many seniors feel the same way. They want to use public transport, but it’s just not reliable enough, so they end up driving instead.
Lauren, a local mum, echoed these concerns. She’s lived in Dinas Powys her whole life and knows the station has a ramp, but the long walk between platforms is a real hassle. Plus, the busy Cardiff Road isn’t the safest or most pleasant route to take with kids.
She dreams of taking her child on train adventures, but without lifts, it’s just not feasible. It’s not just about her; it’s about making the station accessible for everyone, including the elderly and those with disabilities. It’s like climbing the Eiffel Tower just to catch a train!
Kay, another long-time resident, shared her struggles too. She often travels to Southampton but has to get off at Cardiff because she can’t manage her suitcase over the stairs. It’s a real pain, and she wishes there was a better way.
Despite the DfT announcing funding for other stations, Eastbrook was left out. Residents are frustrated, feeling like they’re being overlooked. They argue that with the town’s population expected to grow, the services need to improve.
Cllr Malcolm Phillips from the community council is speaking out, saying the lack of lifts is a form of discrimination. He’s planning to launch a petition to push for change. Local Senedd member Heledd Fychan is also on board, stressing that public transport should be accessible for everyone.
Network Rail acknowledges the issues but says the final call on funding lies with the DfT. They’re committed to making improvements, but it’s a slow process. Meanwhile, residents just want to see some action to make their daily lives easier.