05/03/2026, 17:24

Dear Resident,
I am writing to update you on the ongoing work to address the issues many of you have experienced at Pimlico Station, particularly around closures and escalator reliability.
As this is also my local station, I understand first-hand the inconvenience and frustration that closures and breakdowns can cause to your daily journeys.
Over the past year, I have been actively engaging with Transport for London (TfL) to ensure that your concerns are heard and acted upon.
In March 2025, I met directly with TfL engineers to push forward progress on repairing the escalator. I went underground with the engineering team to inspect the issue firsthand. The escalator, which dates back to the 1970s, has a step chain nearing the end of its working life. I made clear to TfL that, while safety must always come first, Pimlico Station is heavily relied upon by many vulnerable residents, and timely repairs are essential. As a result, TfL undertook targeted work to allow the escalator to return to service safely while longer-term solutions are explored.
Later in November 2025, I met with Seb Dance, Deputy Mayor for Transport, to address the ongoing issue of frequent station closures. During this meeting, TfL outlined the challenges they have faced, including staffing shortages and structural changes within their teams. I pressed for urgent action, and TfL confirmed that they are working to reduce closures by prioritising recruitment, filling supervisor vacancies, and accelerating staff training. We also raised the importance of step-free access and received an update on planned improvement works at the station.
I am pleased to say that, more recently, there have not been the same levels of disruption. The escalators have been working, and the station has remained open more consistently. I know how important this is for daily journeys, particularly for those who depend on reliable access.
While this progress is welcome, I recognise that there is more to do. I will continue to support residents, closely monitor the situation, and work with TfL to ensure that we do not return to frequent closures or ongoing breakdowns. Your experience at Pimlico Station matters, and I will keep pressing for the reliable, safe service our community deserves.
Thank you to everyone who has raised concerns and shared their experiences this has been vital in pushing for improvements.

Yours Sincerely, 

Liza Begum