Central station upgrades set to escalate

Queensland Rail is boosting reliability of facilities at its busiest transport hub, with two 40-year-old escalators set to be replaced at Central station's outer concourse from October.

Queensland Rail Head of South East Queensland (SEQ) Scott Riedel said the works followed the successful modernisation of the station's lifts on Platforms 1-4 and advised customers to be aware of temporary access changes while this next stage was underway. 

"With almost 30,000 people using Central station every day, it is Queensland's busiest train station and through this program, we're ensuring it has modern, safe and reliable facilities," Mr Riedel said.

"From 11pm on 1 October, the two escalators that service Anzac Square Arcade from the outer concourse will close for approximately four months while essential replacement works are carried out.

"During this time, pedestrian access will remain available in the same location via the adjacent stairwell and lift to Ann Street and Anzac Square Arcade and the ramp to Edward Street.

Mr Riedel said within the four-month period there would be two weekends of additional pedestrian detours to enable the safe undertaking of craning activities.

"On the weekends of 29 October-1 November and 13-15 November, access in the vicinity of the escalators, including the lift between the outer concourse, Ann Street and Anzac Arcade will be closed, while a 320-tonne crane removes the old escalators and installs their new replacements," he said.

"A pedestrian detour will be in place while these major works are underway, to create a safe work zone and Queensland Rail will be sure to provide notice of these changes, to keep customers informed.

"We understand these works will have an impact on our customers and have implemented measures to assist them while the improvements are underway. 

"Station staff are on-hand to assist customers, and we will provide station signage, station announcements and information on our website, social media pages and through TransLink to ensure customers are aware of the changes.

"We're also seeking to stage the works where possible to minimise impacts to customers. This escalator upgrade follows the successful replacement of lifts on Platforms 1-4 and will be followed by improvements to the stairwell to Anzac Square Arcade and Ann Street.

"The staircase upgrade will deliver improvements to surface finishes, lighting, wayfinding and security.

"We appreciate our customers' patience and cooperation while these essential works are underway."