Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that the down escalator at Pimlico Tube station will close from Friday, October 9 until late December 2026, forcing passengers who cannot use the fixed stairs to seek alternative routes. The closure follows nearly 50 instances of disruption at the Central London station over the past two years, caused by issues with both escalators, which date from 1972 and are beyond their original design life.
The down escalator has deteriorated more quickly than the up escalator and requires the “most significant intervention,” according to TfL. The up escalator will remain in service throughout the closure. Pimlico station has no lift, meaning passengers who rely on escalators for step-free access will be unable to use the station until the new year.
Local councillor questions why 50-year-old equipment is not replaced
Councillor for Pimlico South, Jason Williams, expressed concern over the disruption, particularly for older and disabled residents. “The escalator closure will be a major disruption for Pimlico residents, particularly older and disabled residents. After repeated problems over the past two years, residents need confidence that there is a lasting solution,” he said.
Williams added: “TfL says this maintenance will improve reliability in both the short and longer term, which is welcome. But they have also confirmed that Pimlico’s escalators date from 1972. The fundamental question therefore remains: why are we continuing to maintain equipment that is more than half a century old rather than replacing it?” He also noted that roadworks are already causing significant disruption across Pimlico, making reliable Tube access more important than ever.
TfL apologises and points to alternative routes
A TfL spokesperson apologised for the inconvenience and explained the purpose of the work: “The closure at Pimlico will facilitate essential maintenance work to improve the reliability of the down escalator. The escalators were installed in 1972 and the escalator that is being closed has begun to fail more often than the other.”
The spokesperson added: “The maintenance will make it more reliable in the short and longer term, and will reduce the risk of unplanned closures. We apologise to customers for the disruption, and will update when the work has been completed.”
Passenger alternatives during the closure
While the escalator is closed, passengers will still be able to access the platforms via the fixed staircase. Those who cannot use the stairs can take bus routes 2, 36, or 185 (stop D) or bus service 360 (stop H) on Bessborough Street to Vauxhall station, where step-free access is available.
The closure is scheduled to last until late December 2026, with TfL promising to provide updates once the work is completed.
