THURROCK's MP has expressed her anger and frustration after learning that recently installed lifts at Grays Rail station have been taken out of commission as they are unsafe.

Jen Craft has written to the chief executive of Network Rail, Jeremy Westlake, calling for urgent action to get the lifts back in action.

The lift installation, enabling disabled passengers to get to either platform without a lengthy diversion over the town centre's rail crossing outside the station, has been dogged with problems since work began in 2024 and eventually opened many months late, in September 2025.

Mrs Craft says: "I am writing regarding the lifts at Grays station, which I understand have been closed indefinitely for safety assessments.

"These lifts have been problematic from the outset. They should have been completed in late 2024,  but after repeated delays – and repeated reassurances from your team that the wait would be  worthwhile – they did not open until September 2025.

"Since then, the lifts have been closed on several occasions, often for extended periods. This is deeply frustrating, particularly for residents with disabilities or mobility issues, who have been unable to access the station.

"While I agree that patient safety must be a priority, these consistent delays are unacceptable.  Given Network Rail received the funding for these lifts under the Government's Access for All Scheme, I would like to understand what urgent action you will take to ensure the promised upgrades are delivered – with a reliable, safe lift."

Jen Craft was present when the lifts were formally opened last year.

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Mrs Craft has also written to Lord Hendy, the Minister for Rail, setting out her concerns.

She told Thurrock Nub News: "The ongoing failure to deliver a working lift at Grays station is completely unacceptable.

"After months of delays and constant issues, the lifts are once again out of action, with no clear date for reopening.

"As a commuter from Grays myself, I know the frustration that many passengers feel. It's simply not good enough.

"Network Rail need to get a grip of this project, to deliver the accessibility upgrades that were promised and funding was provided for."