Darren Paffey, MP for Southampton Itchen, is campaigning for step-free access to Woolston station.
After a meeting with South Western Railway and Southampton City Council at the station, Mr Paffey said: “This isn’t going to be a quick or an easy win.
“From my conversations, it is likely that making Woolston station step-free will need to involve some element of external funding, given existing pressures on railway infrastructure budgets.
“The arguments in favour are compelling: the station has seen a 75 per cent increase in the number of passengers, with the station now served by different train operators and regular services to destinations including Brighton and Portsmouth.”
Despite this growth, passengers requiring step-free access are currently forced to travel to alternative stations, depending on their direction of travel.
He said a recent step-free survey found that 96 per cent of respondents supported the introduction of step-free access to the station.
Survey answers highlighted that the current station is “difficult or impossible” to use for wheelchair users, people with mobility issues, elderly residents, parents with pushchairs, travellers with luggage, and those recovering from injuries.
In a statement on his Facebook, Mr Paffey said: “I’ve said that Woolston Station should be made step-free, and it’s clear that many of you agree.”
Mr Paffey said: “I’m going to keep pushing and talking to potential partners, including around possible sources of funding, and I was pleased that there was a willingness from all who attended yesterday’s meeting to continue to look into options and keep the door open to further discussions.”
In other recent successful schemes for step free access, local authority funding has been involved, so it is possible that funding from the council will be explored as a possibility.
A spokesperson for the council said: “Southampton City Council continues to work with partners to explore different options for making all train stations in Southampton, including Woolston, accessible for all.
“This is in line with our Local Transport Plan’s ambitions, and our City Plan priorities to create both a Growing and More Equal Southampton, so everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”
A spokesperson for South Western Railway said that while there are currently no plans in place, they will continue to work with local stakeholders.