Canning Town Escalators: New Date for Escalator 10, Still No Date for Escalator 4

TfL has sent me an update on the two escalators out of action at Canning Town station. It follows my request for a clear, escalator-by-escalator update.

Escalator 10

Escalator 10 runs down from the bus station into the station. It has been out of service while every step is replaced. TfL says the new steps have now arrived and installation is nearly finished.

Because it has been out of use for so long, the escalator also needs a full service, a clean, a new handrail and a safety inspection before it can reopen. TfL now expects it back in service by 9 October.

That means the end-of-September date we were given last month has been missed. A firm new date is progress, and I’ll be checking that it is met.

Escalator 4

Escalator 4 runs down from the upper DLR platforms to the Jubilee line. It is out of service because of a defective handrail. TfL says a replacement handrail has been ordered and it is working to bring the escalator back “as soon as possible”. There is still no date for delivery, fitting or reopening.

What Happens Next

TfL has acknowledged the impact these outages are having on passengers. But its response doesn’t answer everything I asked for. In particular, it gives no timetable for Escalator 4 and doesn’t say what could still delay Escalator 10. I’ll keep pressing for both.

I’m keeping this case open until both escalators are back and confirmed working. If you use Canning Town, please tell me what you’re seeing, especially after 9 October and especially if you find the stairs difficult. You can email me at john.morris@newham.gov.uk.

Thank you to James Asser MP and Cllr Rohit Dasgupta for continuing to push on this.

— Cllr John Morris