The government has explained why six stations, including Maidstone West, Marden and Headcorn, have not been given funding for step free access.

In November Southeastern nominated 22 stations, including 10 from Kent, to receive a share of the government's £300million Access for All fund.

But when the Department for Transport announced which stations it had chosen in April, west Kent looked neglected.

Headcorn, High Brooms, Hildenborough, Lenham, Maidstone West and Marden all missed out on funding, despite widespread campaigning from MPs, disabled passengers and parents with buggies.

Simon Evenden lives in Headccorn, but has to travel to Staplehurst to get step free access.

Speaking in April the parish councillor said: "Headcorn is a big station serving 600,000 commuters a year. It needs to be accessible for everyone."

The Department for Transport has now responded to a Freedom of Information request filed by Kent Messenger, which revealed why each station was left off the list.

It stated Marden and Headcorn were not chosen as both stations have low footfall.

The same reason was given for Hildenborough and Lenham, which had the lowest footfall out of any station nominated by Southeastern.

Both stations were ranked as low priority by Southeastern, as was High Brooms.

The government's reason for leaving Maidstone West off the list was: "Maidstone West station has a step free route already available via Barrow Crossing, with staff assistance.

"While not ideal, it was thought better to target funding at stations with no step free access. It also had comparatively low footfall for Southeastern nominations."

Despite each station being left out, Maidstone and The Weald's MP has vowed to keep campaigning.

Helen Grant said: "I continue to believe it is essential that both Maidstone West and Marden receive step free access to both platforms so everyone can more easily benefit from the train services available."

Helen Whately, Faversham and Mid Kent MP, recently called for answers over Headcorn's omission.

Speaking today, Mrs Whately said: ""I’m disappointed we didn’t win funding in the latest round and determined to keep on campaigning.

"We shouldn’t make disabled people travel further to stations like Staplehurst or Ashford just to catch a train. If you have a disability life is already difficult enough. We must make sure Headcorn’s next bid for funding is a success.”

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