Escalator revamp at the Wellgate centre frustrates shoppers

Shoppers in Dundee have raised concerns about improvements carried out in the Wellgate Shopping Centre.

Two new sets of stairs were unveiled as they replaced 40-yearold escalators in the precinct this week.

But the move to upgrade the existing structures that connect the ground floor to the first floor has drawn criticism.

Despite there being two escalators still in place, some believe a ramp should have been considered.

Some shoppers said the “teeny totty” lift and lack of ramp were causing problems.

A spokesman for the Wellgate Shopping Centre said the ramp had been removed by the previous landlord more than 15 years ago.

He said: “Unfortunately, legislation concerning the maximum gradient of access ramps changed soon after, which means there is not enough room to reinstate this facility.”

National charity Promoting a More Inclusive Society (Pamis) voiced their concerns. Maureen Phillip, senior family support director, said: “It is disappointing to hear there is not enough adequate access to all levels of the Wellgate Centre.

“All areas should be inclusive and accessible to everyone in the community. We would urge anyone making alterations or planning for new buildings to always consider accessibility.

“An inclusive environment should always be designed to ensure that lifts are large enough to accommodate large wheelchairs plus carers.”

The Wellgate spokesman said: “We do have several elevators, the one to the side of these new stairs is available for those wishing to visit levels one, two and three.

“There is also a public lift in TJ Hughes that serves levels one and two and a car park lift accessible from levels two and three.

“We understand that the glass lift does get busy and we are currently reviewing its use and always prioritise wheelchair users and those with pushchairs.”