Wimbledon MP condemns “worrying” rise in Tube lift closures caused by staff shortages

Paul Kohler MP has condemned “worrying” new Freedom of Information figures showing lift closures across the London Underground caused by staff shortages reached record levels in 2025.

The figures show lifts were closed for a total of 6,365 hours in 2025 solely because trained staff were unavailable, worse than the already alarming figures recorded in 2024.*

The data also reveals that Wimbledon Park station recorded the highest total closure time anywhere on the Underground network in 2025, with lifts unavailable for 1,435 hours across 244 separate incidents.

One closure lasted continuously from 20 November to 8 December 2025, a total of 424 hours, because no trained staff were available. Wimbledon Park station only gained step-free access in 2021.

Mr Kohler has repeatedly raised concerns about lift reliability and staffing levels on the Underground. Last year, he secured a debate in Parliament to highlight the issue, and more recently he has pressed the Transport Secretary for answers on what discussions are being held with Transport for London following the increase in closures.

The figures come despite repeated commitments from Mayor of London Sadiq Khan that lifts should not be taken out of service due to staffing shortages.**

Commenting on the figures, Paul Kohler MP said:

“These figures are shocking. For Wimbledon Park to top the entire London Underground network for lift closures is completely unacceptable, particularly given the station only recently became step-free.

“Passengers who rely on lifts, including disabled people, older passengers and parents with buggies, are being badly let down. These closures happen suddenly and without warning, meaning people can arrive at a station and simply be unable to complete their journey.

“The Mayor of London promised years ago that TfL’s goal was to have zero lift closures due to staff shortages. Instead, the situation has spiralled in the wrong direction.

“Transport for London must explain why these failures are continuing and what urgent action will be taken to ensure passengers are not stranded.”

Further reading:

FOI data can be found here: FOI request detail - Transport for London