All trains will be accessible to disabled people by 2020, transport minister Charlotte Atkins said today, which follows the introduction of the Disability Discrimination Bill in Queen's Speech last month, writes Haroon Ashraf.

The bill is the final step in the government’s plans to extend rights and opportunities for disabled people and will substantially amend the 1995 Disability Discrimination Act, the Department of Transport said in a statement.

“It is important that disabled people have confidence that, when travelling by rail, the train that arrives will be accessible to them”, said Atkins about the proposals which will apply to England, Wales and Scotland.

Disabled rights group Leonard Cheshire said it was disappointed rail companies had been given another 16 years to make trains more accessible.

“2020 is later than we would have liked but the key now is to ensure that these regulations are properly enforced. It is a relief to actually have a date after years of discussion and prevarication,” said the charity.

Since 1999 new trains have had to comply with accessibility regulations, including minimum standards for audio and visual information systems, wheelchair accommodation, and accessible toilets.

“Existing trains will have to be more accessible when they are refurbished and improvements to the regulatory regime are also proposed,” said Atkins.

There are 1,900 new accessible vehicles in service, which are also more user friendly for passengers with heavy luggage or parents with pushchairs.

Another 700 trains are expected in the next 18 months.

Accessibility regulations are already in place for buses and coaches.