How commuters are reacting to the Holborn Tube standing-only escalators
This morning Transport for London began a full trial of its standing-only rule for escalators at Holborn Tube station.
Instead of the usual system, where people who want to stand do so on the right hand side, leaving the left hand side free for those who want to walk up, commuters are being encouraged to stand on both sides.
The six-month trial comes after a short pilot, where just one escalator was adopted for the new approach, which TfL said was encouraging. It is aimed at reducing crowding and congestion in the rush hour.
So how is the first day panning out?
In short, not well.
Stand right, walk left. Anything else is INSANITY!!! #GETOUTOFMYWAY!!! #Holborn #HolbornStation
— Dr. Lucy Lyons (@LucyLyons) April 18, 2016
I don't get how TFL expect to ease congestion at Holborn, an absolute chuffer of a station, by getting people to stand still. WTF?
— Andy McElwaine (@andymcelwaine) April 18, 2016
https://twitter.com/angertwink/status/721986247057633281
https://twitter.com/richy_inger/status/721984309574373376
We took a step back today as a nation, standing on the right hand side of the escalator is what made Great Britain Great… #Holborn
— AJPS (@_ajps_) April 18, 2016
https://twitter.com/fawnknutsen/status/721982748651556864
https://twitter.com/rannewyman/status/721982693244841985
https://twitter.com/Becca_Cuming/status/721982511690199040
As someone who never stands on an escalator, regardless of its height, I'm glad I don't work in Holborn. Having to stand would drive me mad
— D (@GuitaristDom) April 18, 2016
https://twitter.com/christopherward/status/721981470882074624