New Flexstep access solution installed in central Manchester bar entrance
The creation of a new entrance area at The Eagle Bar in Central Manchester presented an important opportunity to improve both the appearance and accessibility of the venue. As part of the redevelopment, the entrance needed to provide safe, convenient and inclusive access for all visitors while complementing the design and character of the bar.
Like many existing buildings and venues in city-centre locations, space within the entrance area was limited. A change in floor levels meant that a conventional staircase was required, but accessibility also needed to be considered for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility. Installing both a separate staircase and a conventional wheelchair lift or platform lift would have required additional space and could have significantly affected the layout and visual appearance of the newly created entrance.
TJ Lift Solutions Ltd was appointed to provide an innovative accessibility solution that could meet these requirements without compromising the available space or the overall design of the development.
Following an assessment of the site and access requirements, a Liftup FlexStep was selected as the ideal solution. The installation would provide the everyday functionality of a staircase while incorporating an integrated lift, allowing the entrance to remain inclusive, practical and visually unobtrusive.
The Liftup FlexStep is an innovative solution that combines a staircase and step lift within a single unit. In its normal position, it operates as a conventional set of steps, providing simple and convenient access for pedestrians entering and leaving the venue.
When required, the FlexStep transforms into a platform lift, allowing wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility to travel safely between the different floor levels. This dual functionality makes it an ideal alternative to installing a separate disabled access lift where space is limited.
For The Eagle Bar, a 5-step FlexStep was installed within the newly developed entrance area. Careful planning was required to ensure the installation integrated effectively with the surrounding building works and provided a practical access route for all users.
The solution allowed the design team to retain the functionality of a staircase without the need to dedicate additional floor space to a separate lift. This was particularly important within the busy Central Manchester venue, where making the best use of the available space was essential.
When not being used as a lift, the FlexStep remains a discreet and attractive part of the entrance. By combining the functionality of steps and a wheelchair platform lift, the system helps maintain the clean and modern appearance of the refurbishment while providing an effective accessibility solution.
TJ Lift Solutions managed the installation and commissioning of the FlexStep, ensuring the equipment was correctly positioned and ready for safe operation. The result was a practical solution tailored to the specific challenges of the building and the requirements of a busy hospitality venue.
The completed installation has provided The Eagle Bar with a practical, space-efficient and inclusive entrance solution. Visitors can use the steps as part of their normal journey through the entrance, while the integrated wheelchair lift ensures that wheelchair users and those with limited mobility also have safe and dignified access.
By combining two essential functions within one compact installation, the 5-step FlexStep has helped overcome the challenges created by limited space and changing floor levels. The innovative step lift solution avoids the need for separate access equipment and allows the newly created entrance to remain open, functional and visually appealing.
The project demonstrates how innovative platform lifts and accessibility solutions can be incorporated into refurbishment and redevelopment projects without compromising on design or usability. The FlexStep is particularly effective in environments such as bars, restaurants, hotels, retail premises, public buildings and commercial spaces, where accessibility is essential but available space can be limited.
At TJ Lift Solutions, we work closely with clients, architects, contractors and building owners to identify practical solutions for challenging access requirements. From early-stage planning and site surveys through to installation, commissioning and ongoing maintenance, our aim is to provide lift and accessibility equipment that meets the needs of the building and the people using it.
The successful installation at The Eagle Bar is an excellent example of how thoughtful design and the right lift solution can work together to create an entrance that is safe, inclusive and practical for everyone.
