Raynes Park and West Barnes Residents' Association
Serving the community since 1928

Motspur Park railway station

Many commuters and local residents who cross the footbridge over Motspur Park Railway Station might have noted, with disgust, the dreadful state of the station and the manner in which it has deteriorated over the years. After considerable lobbying by local residents, South West Trains finally met with officers from Merton Council, ward councillors and residents. The meeting took place at the station on 5th December 2003.

It was very encouraging that the new South West Trains station manager for the line and the council officers seemed enthusiastic about raising standards at the station. A plan of action was agreed by the relevant parties that should, hopefully, see dramatic improvements early in the new year - some things have already been actioned (at the time of writing, January 2004). The main improvements include:

• cleaning the alleyway from Claremont Avenue daily rather than weekly
• installation of litter bins on either side of the station for a trial period (done)
• gritting of the staircase in frosty weather (done at time of this report)
• installation of handrails all along the staircase platforms
• cleaning the considerable litter off the tracks (before February 2004)
• getting offenders to clean graffiti from around the station
• levelling or draining the alleyway to get rid of the huge puddle that forms at the bottom of the stairs
• general repairs and maintenance around the station.

Local residents and commuters can also help by reporting problems to the ticket office and, in particular, by reporting graffiti. The latter has a double impact as it will help to get the graffiti removed more quickly and, if enough incidents are reported, then South West Trains will consider installing more closed circuit television around the station. Graffiti can be reported to:

• the British Transport Police on freephone 0800 40 50 40
• Merton Council on 020 8545 4109
• South West Trains in person at the ticket office
• the Metropolitan Police

When reporting graffiti, please be sure to quote the "tag" or name incorporated in the graffiti as this identifies the culprit.

Thanks are extended to our ward councillors Gilli Lewis-Lavender and Angela Caldara for their continued and effective support of local residents in Motspur Park.

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