Government Responds to Committee’s Call for Improved Transport Accessibility

The House of Commons Transport Committee has published the Government’s response to its report Access Denied: Rights versus Reality in Disabled People’s Access to Transport. The report highlights the persistent barriers faced by disabled people across all modes of transport and calls for urgent, practical reforms.

In its response, the Government acknowledges these issues and sets out steps to embed accessibility within its forthcoming Integrated National Transport Strategy. Key measures include:

• A new rail accessibility roadmap and creation of a strengthened passenger watchdog.
• Reforms to local bus services, including funding for improved access and safety.
• A review of transport accessibility legislation by the Law Commission.
• Completion of the Changing Places Toilets Programme across the network.

The Government stresses that accessibility must be a “golden thread” running through all aspects of transport planning and delivery — across urban and rural settings, and at both local and national levels. It also recognises that accessibility failings limit access to work, education, and healthcare, affecting not only individuals but wider economic and social inclusion.

While the commitments are positive, the report makes clear that lasting change will depend on stronger enforcement, cultural shifts across the sector, and meaningful inclusion of disabled people in decision-making.

Read the full report and response here.