Walthamstow’s Blackhorse Road station escalators shut for six months, causing major disruptions for commuters and disabled passengers
People have to walk down the escalators just to catch a Tube. This is especially tough for those with disabilities or anyone carrying heavy bags or pushing prams.
Transport for London (TfL) says the escalators won’t be back until late June. It’s causing a lot of chaos, and the lift at Walthamstow Central is also out of service.
Stella Creasy, the local MP, is raising concerns. She mentioned that none of the stations in Walthamstow are really accessible. If you’re in a wheelchair, getting to the platforms is a real challenge.
She’s been pushing for more buses to run between Blackhorse Road and Walthamstow Central, and wants to allow more buggies on those buses too.
Stella even shared a video online showing a long line of passengers waiting to walk down the escalators. She suggested that people might want to avoid the station if they can.
TfL has apologized for the hassle. A spokesperson said the closure is necessary for essential maintenance to improve safety and efficiency. They’re encouraging folks to travel during off-peak times or use their travel planning tools for alternatives.
This situation follows another incident where passengers at Cutty Sark DLR station had to climb 121 steps after the escalator broke down last month.
