Repairs take place on troubled Doncaster Interchange escalator
Repairs have been taking place on a troubled escalator at Doncaster Interchange – weeks after a person fell and after concerns were raised about its safety.
The esclator has been cordoned off with yellow and black screens for work to take place.
Emergency services were called to the escalator which connects the Interchange to the Frenchgate shopping centre in November after a person fell.
The escalator had been out of order for a number of weeks but was still in use for shoppers and bus travellers to use as a set of stairs.
Earlier this year, calls were made for action over the broken, litter strewn escalator over fears of a potential accident.
Users say it was regularly covered in litter – including drinks cans and food wrappers, which they said were dangerous trip hazards.
One said: “Christmas is coming so footfall will be higher and with the escalator not going down, litter is accumulating making it a trip hazard.
“I use the station maybe two to three times a week and there's no barrier stopping use, there's no signage up, the litter on it is terrible, you never see a cleaner on them.”
The November fall followed an incident in October 2023 when Doncaster man Neil Anderson was left in a coma after suffering serious injuries after tumbling all the way down the escalator.
Upset family member Sam Menzies said Mr Anderson, from Edlington was ‘declared dead’ at the scene – but was resuscitiated before being taken to Doncaster Royal Infirmary where he was put in an induced coma.
A family member said: "He fell from the top to the bottom, it was an horrific fall. He suffered a cardiac arrest, bleeding from his eyes, nose and head and was choking.”
After concerns were raised about the state of the escalator, a Doncaster Interchange spokesperson said: “The escalator underwent routine servicing on 13 October, during which the attending engineers identified components requiring remedial work.
"In the interest of public safety, the equipment was immediately isolated and secured.
"Until the necessary quotations are received and the subsequent repairs are authorised and completed, the escalator will remain stationary and available for use as steps to ensure continued public access.
“Due to the age of the escalator units, we are currently assessing long-term solutions, which may include full refurbishment or replacement.
“Our housekeeping team conduct frequent inspections and cleaning throughout the day to minimise and potential hazards and to maintain a safe environment for all users.
“We appreciate the public’s continued patience and understanding as we work to ensure the safety, reliability and long-term quality of our facilities.”