Frustrated commuters are calling out TfL for major delays caused by escalator maintenance at Blackhorse Road Station
London: TfL has shut down the escalator at Blackhorse Road Station until July for maintenance. This has led to long queues spilling out onto the street during the busy morning rush hour.
Commuters are really upset with Transport for London, calling the delays “unacceptable.” The escalator closure means that those who can’t manage the 89 steps down to the platforms are stuck without access to the Victoria Line for six months.
TfL mentioned that they had to replace old parts in both escalators as part of essential maintenance. Until the repairs are done, they’ll be taking one escalator out of service at a time, with the one still working only going up to help people evacuate in emergencies.
Since the closure started, people have been waiting in long lines just to get into the station. Those who can’t use the stairs have been told to take buses to other stations that are step-free, but that’s not sitting well with many commuters.
On social media, folks are complaining that the bus detours add extra time and cost to their trips. One person even suggested that TfL should run a free shuttle for those with strollers or heavy bags to make things easier.
Another commuter pointed out that six months is a long time for such a busy station to be without a down escalator, especially during peak hours. Many are asking TfL to at least turn on the down escalator during rush hour to help ease the crowding.
A spokesperson from TfL said the escalator closure is necessary for safety and efficiency improvements. They apologized for the disruption and encouraged people to travel at less busy times or use their travel planning tools for alternatives.
