As a resident of southwest London, I've witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by my fellow community members due to the lack of affordable and reliable transportation options. Our area is often overlooked when it comes to funding and major projects, leaving us with few choices but expensive National Rail services that are frequently late. This situation is particularly challenging for students at Roehampton University who have limited connections to central London.  

Despite being home to the University of Roehampton, the renowned Queen Mary’s Hospital, and offering convenient access to the beautiful Richmond Park (the largest park in London), Roehampton is faced with subpar transport infrastructure. Visitors and locals are left to contend with lengthy walks, frequent bus transfers, and limited railway access, making the journey to and from Roehampton far from seamless. 

The absence of a dedicated train station for Roehampton intensifies these challenges. The nearest railway station, Barnes Station, is in Barnes village, a considerable distance away. Even after a 23-minute journey from London Waterloo, travelers find themselves reliant on buses for onward journeys, which are almost exclusively single decker and arrive only 3 times an hour. This adds further delays and inconvenience. 

The limited underground access increases the issue. While Putney Bridge station on the District Line offers some connectivity, it requires multiple changes and significant travel times. Hammersmith Station, although offering access to multiple underground lines, remains a distant option, necessitating long bus rides and walks, or even hour-long treks for those preferring to travel on foot, or dealing with the ongoing closure of Hammersmith Bridge.

Roehampton is a vibrant community that deserves better. We propose the construction of a new train station in our area. This would not only provide much-needed connectivity but also breathe new life into our local economy by repurposing abandoned buildings for station facilities. 

Currently, buses are our primary mode of transport, but they're often full and late. A train station would offer an efficient alternative and improve connections to other trains across London. It's worth noting that Transport for London (TFL) has almost no presence in this part of the city - something we believe needs rectifying. Although it would take a significant amount of time to build tracks and a station, Roehampton Station could serve as a useful extension to the London Overground from Richmond. 

We urge decision-makers to consider this proposal seriously - not just as an infrastructure project but as an investment in the people of Roehampton and southwest London's future prosperity. Please sign this petition if you agree that it's time for change.