A major programme of works to provide Victoria Underground station with step-free access has begun.

The £700 million investment will involve building a new ticket hall, as well as substantially enlarging the existing southern ticket hall. There will also be new entrances and nine new escalators, along with two additional lifts to provide step-free access to all platforms.

However, changing between Circle or District and Victoria line services is likely to be slow, particularly during busy periods, while the works are ongoing. It has been suggested that travellers consider alternative routes at peak times.

London Underground’s chief operator Nick Brown said: “This work to improve Victoria station will open up one of our most important interchanges to disabled people, and make life easier for anyone travelling with children or heavy luggage.”

Victoria is one of 40 Underground and Overground stations that are set to become step-free over the next ten years.