HS2 redesign enables step-free Elizabeth line access at Old Oak Common

High Speed 2 (HS2) has approved a redesign at Old Oak Common station that will lower the railway tracks serving the Elizabeth line platforms. This modification is set to provide step-free access for passengers boarding and alighting Elizabeth line trains, a significant improvement for accessibility at the major interchange.

Addressing an accessibility challenge

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The standard UK national rail platform height is 915mm above the rails, a legacy standard designed to accommodate various train types. This height difference typically creates a vertical gap for passengers. While the Elizabeth line's central London stations were granted an exemption during construction to ensure level boarding, this was not the case for Old Oak Common.

At Old Oak Common, national rail platforms were initially being built to the standard height. This would have necessitated manual ramps for Elizabeth line passengers to achieve step-free access. Given that Elizabeth line passengers are expected to account for around 90 per cent of all interchanges at the station, relying on manual ramps would have caused delays and required significant staffing.

The chosen solution

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Instead of raising the platforms, which would have required redesigning other station infrastructure like lifts and escalators, HS2's approved redesign lowers the railway track at platforms 5 to 8. This approach allows the platforms and associated equipment to be built to a consistent specification. The affected section of track will utilise a solid concrete slab track construction instead of traditional ballast.

Andy Lord, London’s Transport Commissioner, highlighted the importance of this development. He stated that level boarding is essential for customer safety and accessibility, particularly given the high proportion of Elizabeth line users expected at Old Oak Common. Lord also noted that the platforms will be step-free from the street, benefiting local residents and supporting planned housing growth in the area.

The resolution of this issue involved collaboration between HS2, Network Rail, Transport for London (TfL), and the Department for Transport, with input from train operators and accessibility groups. This redesign ensures Old Oak Common joins the 41 other Elizabeth line stations that already offer step-free access.