London Assembly Member for Ealing & Hillingdon Bassam Mahfouz shares his latest update on the work he does at City Hall for residents.
“Better transport for Ealing is firmly on my Christmas list this year. As we enter the festive season, a time when people want to travel easily to see loved ones, shop locally and enjoy everything our borough has to offer, it’s clearer than ever that we need reliable and accessible transport across Ealing.
“Last month, I met with Harvey Duncan to discuss the ongoing issue of the gap between the train and platform on the Elizabeth Line at Ealing Broadway. Despite early intervention from TfL and the Mayor, it’s actually Network Rail who who hold responsibility for fixing this unacceptable situation. Last month, I enlisted the support of the Mayor to expedite a resolution and get plans to fix the mess back on track. I have also been contacted by users at Hanwell Station, one that was originally going to be the ONLY one on the Lizzie Line not to have lifts until we stepped in to force the result we have now – I’m calling for a meeting early in the New Year with passenger groups to make representations on the issues there too.
“I’ve also been making the case for more frequent Elizabeth line and TfL Rail services at Acton, Hanwell, West Ealing and West Drayton. These stations are used by thousands every day, but current services simply don’t meet demand. With ten new Elizabeth Line trains now joining the fleet, I’ll be pressing the Mayor again this month to commission feasibility work to deliver more frequent services. This would mean shorter waits, less platform crowding and calmer, more reliable journeys – a welcome gift for residents.
“There’s also good seasonal cheer in the form of the new Superloop SL13 bus route from Ealing Broadway to Hendon. While we await the final consultation results, this new link between West and North London promises to be an important, affordable and sustainable connection for our community and the funding is already in place to make it happen.
“And it’s not the only welcome arrival: the new 118 Night Bus, connecting Northolt with central London, is on its way too. With 90% of consultation respondents backing the idea, it’s clear this service will fill a major gap – making it easier for people to get home safely after a late shift or a festive night out.
“Finally, some of you will have seen my Christmas Card this year – which features two designs from local children, of the gifts they would want to give the world this Christmas. One side featured a simple, but powerful message of “hope”, the front, an image of “Sharing the joy” around the world, with gifts of peace, kindness and love. Whether you are celebrating Christmas, Hannukah, or just enjoying having a break with those you hold dear, the world has been through a lot this past year.
“I want to wish you and your loved ones a peaceful and blessed Christmas and hope for joy, peace, kindness (and improved connectivity) for 2026!
“Hope you manage to have a wonderful break!”
