Lifts providing access to the Greenwich foot tunnel could remain out of service for another five months.

The lifts on both sides of the river need repairing, which requires detailed conservation plans to be approved and bespoke parts made due to their unique historical nature.

Access to the 119-year-old tunnel via the stairs will remain open 24-hours-a-day.

A spokesperson for Greenwich Council said: “The Council apologises for the inconvenience the closure has for people living and working in the borough and for those visiting the historic maritime town.

News Shopper: The foot tunnel's lifts are difficult to repair (Wiki)The foot tunnel's lifts are difficult to repair (Wiki)

“Officers are working hard to develop a proposal that will ensure equal access and a better lift service for all tunnel users.”

The public are advised to be mindful of using the lengthy stairs, which can be challenging for people with reduced mobility or fitness.

Repairs are the first phase of a plan exploring replacement of the existing lifts, as even after the current issue is resolved, they remain vulnerable to further unpredictable faults.

The initial phase would seek to increase the reliability of the service and keep it open.

Members of the public can use the DLR at cost alternatively, between Cutty Sark and Island Gardens.

There are two-foot tunnels in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, one in Greenwich and the other in Woolwich, which are used by 1.5 million people a year.

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