Balham Tube Station will be opening its entrance in the morning next week despite saying it would be shut, according to Dr Rosena Allin-Khan.

The Tooting MP has announced on her Twitter that following discussions with Transport for London, they will be trialling people using just the stairs in the morning rush hour.

TfL recently confirmed that due to necessary elevator works, commuters wanting to get the tube from Balham between 7.30-9.30am on Mondays to Fridays would have to find another station to use . At any other time people can get the tube from Balham but they will have to use the staircase, which means those with luggage or buggies have also been asked to use another station.

Dr Allin-Khan said: "On Monday, TfL announced plans to close Balham Stn every morning from next week to repair an escalator.

"While the repairs are necessary, this hasn't been communicated well enough and will affect local commuters - especially as offices gradually reopen.

"I met TfL today and outlined my concerns.

"It's been agreed the station stairs will remain open for a week-long trial."

"Staff have valid concerns about social distancing at peak travel times, so to ensure this trial is successful, let's all work together.

"Make sure you allow extra time."

Nub News has asked TfL to comment.

TfL's original plans

On Tuesday (June 22), a spokesperson for TFL said: "From Monday 28 June until late December 2021, there will be no entry to Balham station on Mondays to Fridays between 07:30 and 09:30. This is due to planned escalator works.

"Please walk to or take bus 155, 249 or 355 to nearby Clapham South or Tooting Bec stations during the hours stated above, and if you are travelling with luggage or buggies.

"We are sorry for the inconvenience caused. Thank you for continuing to wear a face covering when using public transport, washing or sanitising your hands before and after travel, and travelling at quieter times where possible."

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