JULIA LOPEZ PRESSES TFL FOR IMPROVEMENTS AT HORNCHURCH AND UPMINSTER BRIDGE STATIONS

23rd October 202623rd October 2026 Francesca Lilleystone 0 Comments Hornchurch Station, Julia Lopez MP, Step Free, Upminster Bridge min read

Julia Lopez MP has renewed calls for Transport for London (TfL) to deliver improvements at Hornchurch and Upminster Bridge stations, seeking updates on step-free access, the reopening of station toilets, passenger information and maintenance work.

The Hornchurch and Upminster MP has been pressing TfL to address a number of longstanding concerns raised by passengers using the two District line stations.

Mrs Lopez’s team has now written to TfL requesting progress on four outstanding issues. These follow an earlier meeting in March of this year where Mrs Lopez sought to bring attention to them with staff from the organisation.

Step-free access at Hornchurch Station

Mrs Lopez has requested an update on the feasibility study into providing step-free access at Hornchurch Station, which TfL had previously indicated would be completed by October 2026.

Improving accessibility remains a priority for the MP, who has consistently called for better access to local railway stations for disabled passengers, older residents and those travelling with pushchairs.

Reopening station toilets

Mrs Lopez is also continuing to press for the reopening of public toilets at Hornchurch and Upminster Bridge stations.

TfL has been trialling measures to address antisocial behaviour at Dagenham East and Upney stations. Mrs Lopez has asked for the results of these trials and whether similar measures could be introduced locally to allow the facilities to reopen.

Passenger information and station maintenance

The MP has also raised concerns about a non-working train information screen at Hornchurch Station, which remained out of service when a member of her team visited the station recently.

Meanwhile, TfL confirmed in September that it was developing plans to improve the appearance of Upminster Bridge Station, although the scope of the work had yet to be determined.

Mrs Lopez has requested further details about the proposed improvements and when passengers can expect work to take place.

Pressing TfL for action

Commenting on the outstanding issues, Mrs Lopez said:

“These are practical improvements that would make a real difference to people using our local stations.

“Whether it’s making Hornchurch accessible to everyone, reopening much needed public toilets or simply ensuring information screens work properly, passengers should be able to expect stations that are accessible, welcoming and properly maintained.

“I’ve been raising these issues with TfL for some time and will continue pressing for progress. Residents deserve to see these improvements delivered, not just discussed.”

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