Thanks for replies-i also posted the query on an mot only' forum with only one reply (pass & advise)
kevin, i haven't heard the the phrase rocker' since the film 'the french connection' when the cut the steps open! )
the sill is the main structural element on the side though? anyway, i've visited the (new) station & offered my advise-the ve who first trained me said if in doubt imagine removing the suspect panel-would it affect the structural integrity? I personally don't think the aforementioned panels would, so pass & advise time i think.
thanks, ian(n)