The Trafford Centre has confirmed that substantial construction work is underway in its iconic main dome, as part of a major escalator and lift refurbishment. Large hoardings have been erected around the escalators at the centre of the complex, near Selfridges, and the escalators are being dismantled. This area is one of the most photographed spots in the shopping centre due to its Greco-Roman inspired design.
Customer Guidance and Relocations
Notices on the barriers direct customers needing to go up to alternative lifts and escalators at The Orient. Lola's Cupcakes, previously located beneath the escalators, has been moved to the main shopping area during the works. The Trafford Centre spokesperson stated that the construction has been scheduled outside school holiday periods to minimise inconvenience, though no completion date has been provided.
Eco-Friendly Upgrades
The centre is replacing all three escalators in the main dome, following the installation of six new escalators in The Orient earlier this year. This is part of a programme to replace and refurbish nine escalators and 13 lifts in total. The new units are eco-efficient, featuring smart invertors, regenerative drives, and standby speed operators, reducing energy consumption by 40%. They will also include LED lighting on steps and skirting panels, which is 80% more efficient than conventional fluorescent lighting.
An automatic slowdown or stopping mechanism will activate when no shoppers are detected, further saving energy. The spokesperson added: 'Our friendly guest services team are on hand to direct guests to nearby lifts and stairs. Doing all three units at once, outside of the summer holidays, means that we can reduce the disruption and get the new escalators operational in less time.'
Upcoming Openings
The improvements coincide with several new store openings, including a Uniqlo lifestyle outlet, a Frurt frozen yoghurt kiosk, Dave's Hot Chicken, and fitness retailers Garage and Lululemon. The Trafford Centre thanked customers for their patience, promising the upgrades will be worth the wait.
