London's Underground creates "step-free" accessible map

From the BBC:

Two new London Underground maps have been produced to help disabled, pregnant and elderly passengers.

The Step-Free Tube Guide includes information about the stations where you can change between lines without encountering steps or escalators.

The Tube Toilet map shows which stations have accessible loos for wheelchair users, and whether they have baby changing facilities.

The old step-free map was redesigned after it was described as confusing.

The old maps used to just have symbols denoting which stations had wheelchair access.

The new one also gives the information on the gap between the train and platform.

There are also different symbols to show stations which are step-free when changing between lines, but where it is not possible to get in or out of the station without using stairs or an escalator.

Actress and wheelchair user Athena Stevens, formerly on the Independent Disability Advisory Group, said: "The old guide caused a lot of confusion.

"What we all wanted to achieve was a simple, honest, straightforward guide to how the system is now.

"In doing this, we have put the decision and independence about journeys exactly where it should be - in the hands of the individual."

Wayne Trevor, London Underground's Accessibility & Inclusion Manager, said: "This information is vital for many mobility impaired people, including wheelchair users, so they can decide the best route to take.

"It will also be useful for many older people, people with temporary injuries, and those travelling with buggies or lots of luggage."

London Underground has 54 step-free stations and 25% of stations will be step-free by 2010.