The long running plan to upgrade South Kensington tube station to cope with overwhelming demand has taken another step closer to something being done.

TfL has published a notice in the Official Journal of the European Union seeking a joint-venture partner to redevelop the station.

The aim of the development is to provide funds to provide step-free access to the District and Circle line platforms via a new station entrance on Thurloe Street. Specifically, the step-free access is to platform, not to train, which could require a small hump added part way along the platform.

TfL plans to revamp the commercial and retail units of the station and refurbish the four storey buildings along Thurloe Street, with the potential to add a single storey on the distinctive Bullnose building and create a new development along TfL’s stretch of land on Pelham Street.

The site also includes the main station entrances through the Grade II listed shopping arcade, which will be restored to its original state, and a second entrance via a Grade II listed pedestrian subway.

Subject to planning, the development including step-free access to the District and Circle line and the pedestrian subway could be complete in 2022.

Separately, TfL is continuing to progress plans to rebuild a disused platform for eastbound District and Circle line services. The ticket hall and gate line will be expanded and a new emergency exit to the road bridge leading onto Thurloe Square bridge will be opened.

Subject to planning permission, works could start early next year.