Step-free access may not come to Mill Hill Broadway station until 2019, according to Hendon MP Matthew Offord.

A feasibility study was undertaken in 2015 which highlighted the serious need for disabled access at the station, supported by Barnet Council.

Mr Offord met with Paul Maynard, who became the rail minister last year under prime minister Theresa May, to discuss the possibility of making changes at the station, such as adding a lift.

Barnet Council, Network Rail, Govia Thameslink and Transport for London had all previously met with the Hendon MP to discuss the possibility.

Mr Maynard told Mr Offord to make an application to the government’s Access for All programme to gain funding for the project.

New bids will be invited to the programme later this year, but a decision may not be made before 2019.

Mr Offord said: “Poor access is a clear gap in the quality of the service at Mill Hill Broadway which is a key station on the route into London and to Luton airport.

“I believe the lack of a lift prevents some people from using this station and that is not acceptable.

“The elderly and disabled, people with suitcases, and parents with children and buggies need to be able to access their local station with ease.

“While we cannot be complacent, I believe the work taking place on this project will put Mill Hill Broadway in a good position when the bids are considered.”