CLYDEBANK residents have raised safety concerns regarding both the escalators and lift not being operational in the town’s shopping centre.

Members of the public contacted Post expressing fears about the issue saying elderly shoppers rely on the escalators, claiming it’s “only a matter of time” before an accident happens.

Darren Flynn said: “I have noticed that the escalators have been switched off for a few weeks now. On several occasions I have had to help older folk with their bags because of the struggle to walk up them due to the steepness and size of steps. Some have almost fell on them.

“I understand the lift being out of action because of social distancing but these escalators are vital to some some folk.

“I think it’s only a matter of time before one of the older generation has a fall.”

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But Clyde Shopping Centre said the escalators are switched off following government guidelines.

A spokesman said: “Following social distancing guidelines and the advice from the Scottish Government, the lift at the centre has been closed to the public and the escalators switched off. The escalators are still able to be used without power, as we realise that visitors require access to both levels.

“The revolving hand rail is more efficiently cleaned when the escalators are switched off.

“There are, however, alternative routes to both levels of the centre via the underpass for those unable to walk up the escalators and signage is in place relaying this information.

“We are 100 per cent committed to the stop of the spread of the virus and protecting the NHS and we would ask shoppers to continue to be responsible during this pandemic, only making essential trips to the centre.”