Barrier-free Aubing train station: Katja Weitzel fights for progress!

Barrier-free Aubing train station: Katja Weitzel fights for progress!

In Munich, more precisely at the Aubing S-Bahn station, things have been simmering for over 40 years when it comes to barrier-free access. Despite countless attempts by citizens' initiatives to promote sustainable expansion, progress unfortunately falls by the wayside. The SPD member of the state parliament Katja Weitzel convened a round table on July 8th, which was attended by representatives of the city, the railway, citizens' initiatives as well as advisory boards for the disabled and district councils. The aim was an open dialogue about the barrier-free expansion of the station. Weitzel agrees that the situation can no longer be tolerated and sees barrier-free access as a question of justice and participation in society.

Although the four-track expansion of the S4 is being planned, it remains unclear when this will actually be implemented. Weitzel is calling on the Free State to implement the early barrier-free expansion of the train station. Their commitment shows that something really needs to be done here, because the pressure from the population is growing.

Urgent complaints from residents

In addition, the residents of the underpass under the Aubing S-Bahn station have made their dissatisfaction clear. A resident applied for a temporary stroller or bike ramp, but this was unsuccessful. The Greens on the district committee have supported this demand and pointed out that there is no alternative access option to the train station at all, apart from Colmdorfstrasse. This makes it clear that the city must fulfill its obligations towards the citizens and the newly developed residential area.

There is criticism that the residents of Aubing have been waiting for improvements for years. The urgent requests from the population call for a rethink and increased efforts to make public spaces barrier-free.

Accessibility in public spaces

The importance of barrier-free access cannot be overstated because public space is more than just a continuous route; it is part of social life. Numerous experts share this opinion, because public spaces enable everyone to participate in social life. What happens in our cityscape affects not only residents and passengers, but also the entire community. The elements that should ensure barrier-free design include shopping areas, public transport stops and various leisure areas.

DIN 18040-3 lays down an important basis for the planning and implementation of barrier-free traffic systems in public spaces. Regulations and standards, which must also be in line with European directives, provide the legal framework for creating an infrastructure that is as barrier-free as possible. These points illustrate how urgently the issue needs to be addressed.

Time is of the essence, and the residents of Aubing have more than just one concern - they are demanding changes, for a train station that is accessible to everyone. Katja Weitzel and the committed groups have taken on the topic. It is now up to those responsible to take the necessary steps and meet the demand for barrier-free access to the S-Bahn station.

For more information read the reports from Weekly Gazette, Evening newspaper and information on accessibility Federal Office for Accessibility.