London Underground commissioned RNIB to produce the maps as part of a pilot project to provide information to passengers with sight problems, which sighted passengers take for granted. Currently blind and partially sighted people often have to rely on station staff to guide them around Underground stations.
Tim O'Toole, LU Managing Director said: "London Underground is investing more than ever before to make the Tube as accessible as possible for all customers. The new tactile maps are one of these initiatives to make the Tube more accessible and easier to use for blind or partially sighted passengers. Accessibility is about more than step-free access. Features such as induction loops, tactile paving and additional and more visible help and information points will be added to stations as modernisations and refurbishments of Tube stations are completed." (RNIB web-site October 5 th 2006)
